Thelypteris decursive-pinnata

Japanese Beech Fern

Japanese Beech Fern is one of the best landscape ferns we've tried over the years. It also behaves very well in pot culture and it travels well with minimal breakage. It has been in the trade for some time, but is still underutilized since it hasn't been readily available. No more! Thelypteris decursive-pinnata is a vigorous spreader and an excellent choice for a groundcover. Beautiful, with graceful fronds, it produces large colonies in moist or average shade. Its vigorous growth is produced on short runners so it is easily controlled if necessary. Arching fronds are a lustrous dark green and have a lighter green underside for a unique display. Like the other Thelypteris, Japanese Beech Fern appreciates a little extra moisture in the soil to perform best, although it is not necessary for plant health and appearance. It may be evergreen in warmer zones and is fully perennial to zone 4.

Synonym: Phegopteris decursive-pinnata

Height

12-24 Inches

Spread

12-18 Inches

USDA Hardiness Zone 4-10

Interesting Notes

Decursive means running down the stem. Pinnata means featherlike. The reference is to the pinnae running down the stem.

Phegopteris means phegos (beech) and pteris (fern)

Growing and Maintenance Tips

Thelypteris like moisture, but tolerate periods of dry. This means they look their best when provided consistent moisture and good drainage. Optimum growth will occur in bright shade or morning/afternoon sun with plenty of moisture. Japanese Beech Fern will tolerate full shade as on a north side, but may grow more slowly.

Characteristics & Attributes

Attributes

•	Mass Planting
•	Container
•	Moist Shade
•	Ground Cover
•	Border

Critter Resistance

•	Rabbit Resistant

Exposure

•	Shade
•	Morning Sun / Afternoon Shade
•	Part Sun

Growth Rate

•

Medium

Season of Interest (Foliage)

•	Summer
•	Late Spring / Early Summer
•	Late Summer
•	Fall

Soil Moisture Needs

•	Moist
•	Average
•	Good Drainage