Parablechnum chilense, commonly known as Chilean Hard Fern, is an evergreen fern native to the temperate rainforests and cloud forests of South America, particularly in Chile and Argentina. It can grow to a height of 0.9–1.8 meters (2 feet 11 inches – 5 feet 11 inches), and over time, it often develops a trunk-like rhizome, giving it a tree fern-like appearance. The fern’s fertile fronds stand more erect and have narrower pinnae compared to the broader, more horizontal infertile fronds. The foliage is a deep green, and the plant’s structure adds architectural interest to shaded garden areas.

Chilean Hard Fern has earned the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit, highlighting its value in ornamental horticulture. It is particularly appreciated for its robust form and the textural contrast it provides in shaded garden settings. This fern is suitable for understory planting, in woodland gardens, or as a specimen in a shaded border. It requires consistently moist soil and benefits from a layer of mulch to retain moisture. While it prefers part shade or full shade, it is adaptable to a range of soil types, provided they are well-draining. It is relatively low maintenance but should be protected from strong winds and direct sunlight.CC BY-SA 4.0