Doodia media
Common rasp fern, Hacksaw fern
© David Gibson
Blechnum medium
Fern Facts
Evergreen
Hardiness (USDA zones): 8a-10b
Size: 6" - 12"
Size (cm): 15cm-30cm
Height and Spread: Medium - 1' to 3' in height or spread in 5 years
Garden Use: Containers, Ground cover, Rock garden ferns
Origin: Australia, New Zealand, Pacific Islands
Description
Red to pink new fronds appear in late spring to early summer in the Pacific Northwest that slowly mature to a darker green. Rough textured fronds pinnatifid with some netted veins. It has a grooved stipe that grows from a slowly spreading rhizome. Margins of the pinnae are sharply toothed. Sori with indusium that are oblong in shape run in dual rows along the length of the pinnae midribs. Spores are dark brown. Best way to propagate is by dividing rhizomes or grow from spores.
Grows well when planted in part sun to light shade, humus rich soil can be slightly acidic to neutral with good drainage. Keep moist during the dry periods. It will tolerate short dry spells once established. Regular watering in a rock garden as well as in the woodland garden. Best time to cut out old faded fronds is to wait until new growth emerges. Mulch heavily and protect with fleece in cold snaps.






