Blechnum tabulare, also known as Table Mountain fern, Mountain blechnum , or Table Mountain Fern, is an attractive, evergreen fern with leathery, glossy leaves and compact, symmetrical growth. It is a popular garden fern in South African and temperate climates.

Origin

• Native to South Africa, especially the Western Cape (Table Mountain, Cederberg, Swartberg and other mountainous areas).
• Grows naturally in moist, shady places such as along streams, in grasslands, on slopes, forest edges and in slender vegetation in fynbos and mountain areas.
• Endemic to South Africa; adapted to winter rains, cool temperatures and well-drained, humus-rich soils.
• The name “tabulare” refers to Table Mountain , where the species is commonly found.

Care

• Grows slowly into a rosette-shaped plant 30–80 cm tall and wide (can form a short trunk up to 1 m after years); leaves leathery, glossy dark green, bipinnate.
• Prefers partial shade to full shade (no direct bright sunlight); Ideal under trees or in sheltered garden corners.
• Plant in moist but well-drained soil (humus-rich, slightly acidic to neutral); add leaf compost or peat; mulch annually with leaf compost to retain moisture.
• Watering: keep the soil consistently moist (not soaked); regular spraying or watering in dry periods; tolerates drought moderately if established.
• Winter hardiness: moderate (USDA zones 8–10); tolerates light frost up to about -5 to -8 °C for a short time; mulch in colder climates (such as the Netherlands) or overwinter frost-free as a container plant (cool but frost-free, 5–10 °C, light spot).
• Fertilization: little needed; in growing season (spring/summer) light organic fertilizer or fern manure; avoid over-fertilization.
• Pruning: remove only old, brown leaves; No heavy pruning required.

Usage

• Mainly ornamental plant (ornamental): prized for decorative, glossy leaves and symmetrical shape; Perfect as a foliage plant in shade gardens, rock gardens, borders or containers.