| |
Blechnum spicant Hard fern Evergreen fern (1 Page of 5) The Blechnum spicant plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Blechnaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Hard fern. Some home gardeners know the variety as Lomaria spicant. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Blechnum spicant Common Name: Hard fern Family: Blechnaceae Author: (L.)Roth. Known Hazards: Although we have found no reports of toxicity for this species, a number of ferns contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable[200].
Many ferns also contain thiaminase, an enzyme that robs the body of its vitamin B complex. In small quantities this enzyme will do no harm to people eating an adequate diet that is rich in vitamin B, though large quantities can cause severe health problems. The enzyme is destroyed by heat or thorough drying, so cooking the plant will remove the thiaminase[172]. Mature Height: 0.3 Mature Width: 0.3 Habitat: Woods, heaths, moors, mountain grassland and on rocks, to 1200 metres[17].
Cultivation Notes: A calcifuge plant[17], it prefers a moist shady nook in the rock garden or a position in open woodland in a moist soil[1]. Succeeds in quite dense tree shade if the soil is moist[200]. Prefers a moist position and a northerly aspect but succeeds in sun and in clay soils[1].
A polymorphic and very ornamental species[1], there are several named varieties[200].
Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer[233].
For further Blechnum spicant gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

| |