American Climbing Fern
Lygodium palmatum
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–72" H × 12"–48" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AL, CT, DE, FL and 19 more states
American climbing fern is a unique native fern that produces both sterile fronds and climbing fertile fronds that can twine up supports. This deciduous fern prefers partial shade and moist conditions, forming colonies over time through underground rhizomes.
In an HOA neighborhood
American Climbing Fern takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Climbing growth habit looks uncontrolled
- Can appear messy without proper support structure
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare climbing stems
Wildlife value
As a fern, it does not produce flowers or directly support pollinators, but provides habitat structure and shelter for small wildlife and insects.
Common questions
- How much sun does American Climbing Fern need?
- American Climbing Fern grows best in part shade conditions.
- Where is American Climbing Fern native?
- American Climbing Fern (Lygodium palmatum) is native to AL, CT, DE, FL and 19 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is American Climbing Fern HOA-friendly?
- American Climbing Fern takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow American Climbing Fern? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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