Ferns

Perennial ferns are ‘primitive’ plants that mystified scientists (because of their reproductive ability contrary to their lack of flowers) for centuries - until the development of rudimentary microscopes in the 17^th century that allowed them to observe fern spores and their role in fern reproduction. Despite their apparent delicacy, ferns can often thrive under conditions and environments that few other perennials can tolerate. ‘Modern’ ferns and their predecessors have graced the earth for over 300 million years. There are presently over 12,000 known species. Different fern species grow in the ground, on cliff sides, in full sun and dense shade, along gentle streams and pounding waterfalls - it seems there is no end to their adaptability and resilience.

It is best to buy nursery-propagated specimens of ferns - never collect fern specimens from the wild. There are many ferns and fern allies protected by state and federal conservation laws in view of the fact of their endangered or threatened status. You may visit the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation website to obtain a complete list of protected plant species:

Garden Ferns Available at Little York Plantation:

Common Name                  Botanical Name      light     Water    Height      Soil pH