Upland Brittle Bladderfern
Cystopteris tenuis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–18" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CO and 33 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Upland brittle bladderfern is a delicate native fern that forms small clumps of finely divided, light green fronds. It thrives in partially shaded areas with moderate moisture and goes dormant in winter. This subtle groundcover works well in naturalized settings and woodland gardens.
In an HOA neighborhood
Upland Brittle Bladderfern 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.
- Very delicate appearance may look unkempt to conservative neighbors
- Completely dies back in winter leaving bare spots
- Small size and fine texture can appear weedy rather than intentional
Wildlife value
As a fern, it does not attract pollinators but provides shelter and nesting material for small wildlife. The fronds offer habitat for various insects and spiders.
Common questions
- How much sun does Upland Brittle Bladderfern need?
- Upland Brittle Bladderfern grows best in part shade conditions.
- Where is Upland Brittle Bladderfern native?
- Upland Brittle Bladderfern (Cystopteris tenuis) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CO and 33 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Upland Brittle Bladderfern HOA-friendly?
- Upland Brittle Bladderfern 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 Upland Brittle Bladderfern? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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