CHELIANTHES tomentosa

Description

Cheilanthes tomentosa

Height & Spread 10-50cm x 10-50cm

Hailing from Mexico this is an unusual evergreen fern that is adapted to sheltered, sunny to part shaded sites and free draining, neutral to acidic soil. Fronds are apple green, hairy on top and silver underneath, the midrib can develop dark purple to almost black with age.

Winter wet needs to be avoided so placing it in gritty, humus rich soil near the top of slopes or banks is ideal.

They can also be grown as house plants in bright conditions. Water sparingly.

Ideal for gravel and rock gardens, pots and containers or any site that will give them protection from heavy rain. Growing these ferns in vertical gardens or cracks in walls may offer them the conditions they require.