Woodwardia unigemmata (Jewelled Chain Fern)

A truly spectacular evergreen fern that brings pure primeval drama to the shaded exotic garden. Emerging in spring, the massive, arching croziers unfurl in breathtaking shades of fiery crimson and deep ruby red before transitioning through bronze to a rich, glossy leathery green.

Native to the mountain forests and ravines of the Himalayas and East Asia, it gets its common name from the small bulbils (plantlets) that form near the tips of mature fronds—ready to root where they touch damp soil. In cool, moist conditions, fronds can reach up to 1.5–2 metres in length, cascading elegantly down slopes, raised beds, or over the edge of a large planter.

• Hardiness: Hardy across most of the UK (down to approx. -10°C). Fronds may take a knock in severe frosts, but plants bounce back vigorously in spring.

• Position: Partial shade to deep woodland shade. Shelter from harsh, drying winds to protect the sweeping fronds.

• Soil: Humus-rich, moist but well-drained, acidic to neutral soil. Thrives with a thick autumn leaf mulch.

• Ultimate Size: Height 60–90 cm, Spread 1.5–2 m.