This fern has pinnate, lanceolate, undivided segments suspended on dark brown-purplish stems. The segments mature to marvelous blue-green hue with an almost white highlight on the margins of the abaxial (bottom or reverse side) surface. The basal (lowest pair) of pinnae have a noticeable auricle, while the apical pinnae jut straight out like a lance at the ready. During sporing the bar-like indusia flush a dark, almost purple cinnamon color.  They are very cold tolerant but prefer good drainage and don’t like to be too wet in the winter.  They often found on the edges of rocky outcroppings with a lot of exposure and can tolerate  sunny conditions as long as their roots are tucked into rocky crevices where they stay cool.

Frond Condition: Evergreen

Mature Size: up to 20” long fronds approx 7” wide, arching with a height around 1’

Origin: North America and Central America, U.S. Native

Cultural Requirements: Sun (with consistent moisture) to Part Sun to Part Shade, Dryish to Lightly Moist to Evenly Moist, avoid excessive winter wet.

USDA Zones: 5, 6, 7, 8