New York Fern
Thelypteris noveboracensis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 23 more states
This native deciduous fern forms attractive colonies through underground rhizomes. It has delicate, bright green fronds that create a soft, feathery texture in shaded garden areas and turns golden-brown in fall before going dormant.
In an HOA neighborhood
New York Fern is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.
- Goes completely dormant in winter leaving bare ground
- Can spread aggressively and may need containment
Wildlife value
Ferns don't attract pollinators since they don't flower, but this fern provides shelter and nesting sites for small wildlife and birds.
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.
Does New York Fern fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.