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Thelypteris kunthii

Image of Thelypteris kunthii

Grandiflora

Family

Thelypteridaceae

Botanical Name

Thelypteris kunthii

Plant Common Name

Kunth's Maiden Fern, Southern Shield Fern, Southern Wood Fern, Widespread Maiden Fern

General Description

The Southern Shield Fern is an exceptional deciduous fern native to North America and the West Indies. Its gracefully arching fronds are a medium-green color that turn bronze in the fall. It spreads rapidly via rhizomes to form large colonies. In a shady spot it is drought tolerant but it will also tolerate more sun than most ferns with adequate watering. It makes a great addition to a woodland garden or shady xeriscape.

Characteristics

  • AHS Heat Zone

    12 - 8

  • USDA Hardiness Zone

    7 - 10

  • Plant Type

    Fern

  • Sun Exposure

    Partial Sun, Partial Shade, Full Shade

  • Height

    24"-48" / 61.0cm - 121.9cm

  • Width

    24"-48" / 61.0cm - 121.9cm

  • Native To

    North America

Growing Conditions

  • Soil pH

    Neutral, Alkaline

  • Soil Drainage

    Poorly Drained

  • Soil type

    Loam

  • Growth Rate

    Fast

  • Water Requirements

    Average Water

  • Habit

    Arching/Fountain-shaped

  • Seasonal Interest

    Spring, Summer, Fall

Ornamental Features

  • Flower Interest

    None

  • Foliage Color (Spring)

    Light Green

  • Foliage Color (Summer)

    Light Green

  • Foliage Color (Fall)

    Bronze

  • Fragrant Flowers

    No

  • Fragrant Fruit

    No

  • Fragrant Foliage

    No

  • Bark or Stem Fragrant

    No

  • Repeat Bloomer

    No

  • Showy Fruit

    No

  • Edible Fruit

    No

  • Showy Foliage

    Yes

  • Foliage Texture

    Coarse

  • Foliage Sheen

    Matte

  • Evergreen

    No

  • Showy Bark

    No

Special Characteristics

  • Usage

    Groundcover, Mixed Border

  • Sharp or Has Thorns

    No

  • Invasive

    No

  • Self-Sowing

    No