Thelypteris noveboracensis, commonly known as New York Fern, is a graceful native fern that thrives in shaded, woodland gardens and naturalized areas. Known for its delicate, lance-shaped fronds that taper at both ends, this fern creates a soft, feathery carpet of green foliage. It spreads gently by rhizomes, making it an excellent choice for ground cover in moist, shaded areas.

New York Fern is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in acidic, well-drained soils and dappled sunlight. Its fine texture and bright green color add elegance to woodland edges, shaded borders, or underplantings beneath trees and shrubs. As a native species, it supports local ecosystems and provides habitat for small garden creatures. Perfect for gardeners looking to create lush, shaded landscapes with minimal effort, Thelypteris noveboracensis is both beautiful and ecologically beneficial.

Why Choose New York Fern?

• Elegant Foliage: Soft, feathery fronds add texture and movement to shaded areas.
• Spreading Habit: Forms a gentle, spreading ground cover through rhizomes, ideal for naturalizing in shaded gardens.
• Low Maintenance: Thrives with minimal care, tolerating a range of soil conditions and requiring no pruning.
• Native Benefits: Supports local ecosystems by providing habitat and cover for small wildlife.

Cultivation Tips

• Sunlight Needs: Prefers partial to full shade; tolerates dappled sunlight.
• Soil Requirements: Thrives in moist, well-drained, acidic soils; tolerates sandy or loamy soils.
• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods.
• Spacing: Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for natural spreading.
• Maintenance: Virtually maintenance-free; no deadheading or pruning required.

Landscape Design Ideas

New York Fern is perfect for naturalizing in woodland gardens or as a lush ground cover in shaded borders and under trees. Its spreading habit makes it a great companion for other shade-loving plants like Hostas, Trillium, and Foamflowers. Use it to soften edges along shaded pathways or to fill in gaps in mixed perennial plantings for a cohesive and layered look.

Environmental Impact

By planting Thelypteris noveboracensis, you support native ecosystems and help create a more sustainable landscape. This fern stabilizes soil in shaded areas, prevents erosion, and provides shelter for beneficial insects and small wildlife.