Fern substitutes

[cpp gardener]

Okay group I need some suggestions for fern substitutes for:
1) mostly sun
2) zone 9
3)between 18" and 3'
I have Woodwardia that is struggling and I need something more sun tolerant. Show me what you got!

 

[Sheal]

Sorry cpp I don't know what to suggest if you are looking for something similar. I have various ferns growing wild in the area where I live including one or two in my garden. They prefer a cool, damp atmosphere so if you can provide them with a shaded area next to water, pond or stream for example, then they will be more likely to survive.

 

[cpp gardener]

Yes, I know what they REALLY like but I can't change the environment, just the plants. I have thought that something like Nandina 'Wood's Dwarf' might work and I was hoping to get a couple more ideas.
Thanks for any other ideas!

 

[Sheal]

Ah, I'm with you now, I was thinking you wanted something similar to a fern. Would you prefer a softer foliage like Nandina?

 

[cpp gardener]

Yes, I'm looking for something along that line. We've sort of settled on Nandina and Moonshine yarrow, but other suggestions are still welcome.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Sheal]

Here are two that have come to mind. This particular Mahonia has a fern like appearance.

mahonia soft caress images - Bing

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Spiraea is a consideration too.....

spiraea images - Bing

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[Marck]

There are many true ferns that are more tolerant of heat and relative dryness than Woodwardia, which I find grows best in bog conditions. Instead, give the Australian Brake Fern (Pteris tremula) a try. It is a large, attractive fern that does exceptionally well in California's climate. I grow it best in half-day sun with only average garden water.