Giant Chain Fern
Woodwardia fimbriata
Care
part shade, full shade
regular
moist, acidic; near streams and seeps
3–6ft tall , 3–6ft wide
Evergreen
Resistant
Pacific Coast from British Columbia to Baja California
Non-flowering; reproduces by spores
Largest native fern; dramatic statement plant; needs consistent moisture
Care Guide
Planting
Plant your Giant Chain Fern in part shade to full shade - it won't thrive in direct sun. Choose a spot with moist, fertile soil that drains well; while it's adaptable to different soil types, it prefers acidic soil near areas that stay consistently damp. Space it with room to grow, as it can reach 3 to 5 feet tall and wide with those arching fronds. Plant in fall or winter for best establishment in the Bay Area.
After Planting
Water weekly for the first summer to establish it, then back off to once a week or less once it's settled in - the key is keeping soil moist but not wet, so let it dry out just slightly between waterings. In late winter, cut the entire plant back to the ground to keep it fresh and vigorous for the next season. The #1 mistake people make is overwatering; this fern wants moisture, not soggy conditions, so check the soil before you water.
Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
Listed under federal ESA and CESA; Critical habitat designated; amphibian chytrid fungus threat
California Species of Special Concern; Population declines documented
California Species of Special Concern due to habitat loss and localized population declines
Wildlife Supported
Amphibians
Dense fronds provide refuge and egg-laying substrate near water
Moist microhabitat and calling perches; critical for breeding site habitat near water
Moist areas beneath fronds used for cover during dry season
Birds
Dense frond cover used during breeding season for nesting and fledgling concealment
Dense evergreen fronds provide winter roosting sites and foraging cover
Frond structure used for nest placement April-July
Arachnids
Web-building habitat among frond structure for insect prey capture
Insects
Larvae develop on fern fronds during growing season
Reptiles
Among fronds for hunting insects and thermoregulation
Dense fern cover provides thermoregulation and hunting grounds for amphibian prey