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.
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 Upland Brittle Bladderfern fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.