Purple Cliffbrake
Pellaea atropurpurea
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
CO
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Purple-stem cliffbrake is a compact native fern with blue-green fronds and distinctive purple-black stems. This drought-tolerant fern thrives in rocky, well-draining soils and maintains its attractive foliage year-round.
In an HOA neighborhood
Purple Cliffbrake is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
As a fern, it does not attract pollinators but provides shelter and nesting material 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 Purple Cliffbrake fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.