Ferns

What Are Ferns?

Ferns are some of the oldest plants. In fact, there are some ferns that have been around since the Carboniferous Period, which took place almost 360 million years ago. However, despite their age, ferns are still as popular as ever with many home and businesses owners for decorative purposes. We can help you obtain a wide range of different types of ferns, including the Marginal Wood Fern (Dryopteris Marginalis), the Christmas Fern (Polystichum Acrostichoides), the Cinnamon Fern (Osmundastrum Cinnamomeum), the Royal Fern (Osmunda Regalis), and the Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum Pedatum).

The Different Species of Ferms

One of the reasons people love ferns is because there are various kinds of them, and each one looks a little bit different than the next. We work hard to carry many types of ferns so we can offer something for everyone. For instance, choose from a Marginal Wood Fern (Dryopteris Marginalis) that can tolerate droughts, a Christmas Fern (Polystichum Acrostichoides) that can survive rough winters, a Cinnamon Fern (Osmundastrum Cinnamomeum) that is available in both wholesale and retail, a Royal Fern (Osmunda Regalis) that can adapt to many different conditions, or a Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum Pedatum) that prefers cold and damp soil. You will find something for any occasion.

Wholesale Ferns for Sale

If you have been thinking about adding ferns outside of your home or sprucing up your commercial property with ferns around the perimeter, we will show you ferns and help you pick the right one for your situation. We also help you get your hands on as many ferns as you need. We keep them in stock and even speak with you about how to care for each.

Give us a call today at 231-464-5809 or visit our Fern Resource Center here.

Q & A

What types of ferns does Cold Stream Farm sell?

Cold Stream Farm offers several hardy fern varieties suitable for landscaping and naturalized plantings. Popular options include Christmas Fern, Cinnamon Fern, Lady Fern, Maidenhair Fern, Royal Fern, Marginal Wood Fern, and Toothwood Fern. Each species has unique foliage, growth habits, and environmental preferences, allowing you to choose the right fern for shade gardens, woodland areas, or moist landscapes.

Where do ferns grow best in the landscape?

Most ferns thrive in shaded or partially shaded areas with moist, well-drained soil. They are commonly planted in woodland gardens, under tree canopies, along shaded foundations, or near streams and ponds. Many fern species prefer cool, damp conditions that mimic their natural forest habitats.

Are ferns good for shade gardens?

Yes, ferns are one of the best plants for shade gardens. Their lush green fronds add texture and depth to areas where many flowering plants struggle to grow. Ferns are commonly used as groundcover or filler plants beneath trees, in woodland landscapes, and in shaded garden beds.

Are the ferns sold by Cold Stream Farm hardy?

Most of the fern species offered by Cold Stream Farm are hardy perennial plants, meaning they return year after year in suitable climates. Varieties such as Christmas Fern and Marginal Wood Fern are known for their resilience and ability to withstand colder temperatures.

How big do ferns typically grow?

The mature size of a fern depends on the species. Some smaller varieties remain compact at 12–18 inches tall, while others such as Royal Fern or Cinnamon Fern can reach 3–5 feet in height when fully mature. Proper spacing during planting allows the fronds to develop fully and create a natural, full appearance.

Do ferns require a lot of maintenance?

Ferns are generally low-maintenance plants once established. They require occasional watering during dry periods and benefit from rich organic soil. Minimal pruning is needed, typically just removing old or damaged fronds to keep plants healthy and tidy.

Can ferns be used for erosion control or ground cover?

Yes. Many fern species spread gradually and form dense foliage, making them useful for erosion control on slopes or shaded areas. They are also commonly used as natural ground cover in woodland gardens where turf grass may struggle to grow.

Are ferns suitable for large landscaping projects or bulk planting?

Yes. Ferns are often planted in groups or large clusters to create natural-looking landscapes. Cold Stream Farm supplies ferns in quantities suitable for both residential landscaping and larger landscape projects, making it easier to plant shaded areas, woodland edges, and naturalized spaces.