Coniogramme gracilis

(syn: C. japonica var. gracilis) Recently elevated to species status, Coniogramme gracilis is a unique fern that has been a standout in our garden for the past decade. In our Zone 7b garden, narrow leaf bamboo fern has made a nice 4' wide patch in 10 years, but it may spread slightly faster in warmer climates. The glossy, narrow, ribbon-like evergreen foliage resembles anything but a fern as it makes a dense clump. Coniogramme gracilis forms a much tighter clump and possesses a narrower leaf with a more pendent form than Coniogramme japonica. Although we have found Coniogramme to be tolerant of short droughts, we recommend a rich, slightly moist woodland site for best results.