Cutleaf Grapefern
Sceptridium dissectum
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–12" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 32 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Cutleaf grapefern is a small, delicate native fern with finely divided, lacy foliage that grows in low clumps. This woodland species goes dormant in winter and emerges fresh each spring, thriving in partially shaded areas with consistent moisture.
In an HOA neighborhood
Cutleaf Grapefern takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Completely disappears in winter leaving bare spots
- Very small size may appear sparse or incomplete
- Delicate appearance may look unkempt to conventional gardeners
Wildlife value
As a fern, it does not attract pollinators but provides habitat structure for small woodland creatures and adds to the native plant community that supports local ecosystems.
Common questions
- How much sun does Cutleaf Grapefern need?
- Cutleaf Grapefern grows best in part shade conditions.
- Where is Cutleaf Grapefern native?
- Cutleaf Grapefern (Sceptridium dissectum) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 32 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Cutleaf Grapefern HOA-friendly?
- Cutleaf Grapefern 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 Cutleaf Grapefern? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz