Southern wood fern
Pelazoneuron kunthii
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
24"–36" H × 24"–36" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
TX, LA, FL, GA and 4 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
A vigorous, clump-forming fern with broad, lacy, light green fronds that emerge in spring and persist into the cooler months. Prefers consistently moist, shaded ground and spreads gradually by rhizomes to form a lush, textural groundcover beneath trees or along a shaded wall.
In an HOA neighborhood
Southern wood fern is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: backyard only, mid zone.
Wildlife value
Provides dense cover and humidity-retaining shelter for small wildlife and beneficial insects.
Common questions
- How much sun does Southern wood fern need?
- Southern wood fern grows best in part shade conditions.
- Where is Southern wood fern native?
- Southern wood fern (Pelazoneuron kunthii) is native to TX, LA, FL, GA and 4 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Southern wood fern HOA-friendly?
- Southern wood fern is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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 Southern wood fern fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.