Goldback Fern
Pentagramma triangularis
Also listed as Ceropteris triangularis, Gymnogramma triangularis
Also known as Goldenback Fern, Gold Fern, Western Gold Fern
Climate Match for your location
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A delicate evergreen fern with distinctive triangular fronds backed by a silvery or golden metallic sheen. Native to western North America, it thrives in shaded, dry conditions and is excellent for rock gardens or woodland borders.
Why grow it
Goldback fern offers reliable evergreen texture for shaded, dry spots where many ferns struggle, making it a practical choice for water-conserving landscapes. Unlike moisture-dependent fern species, it tolerates established drought and poor soils once established, reducing maintenance in challenging microclimates. The metallic undersides provide subtle visual interest in woodland gardens and rocky outcrops without requiring supplemental water or fertilizer.
Watch out for
Young plants may need consistent moisture during their first growing season to establish; withholding water too early can stress newly planted specimens. In humid climates with poor air circulation, fronds can develop fungal issues, so adequate spacing and ventilation help prevent problems. Handle fronds carefully when relocating or dividing, as they are somewhat brittle and damage reduces the plant's appearance.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Pteridaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
California and southwestern United States
Native to: Arizona, California, Idaho, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Ground cover
Low spreading plants that carpet the soil.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A delicate evergreen fern with distinctive triangular fronds backed by a silvery or golden metallic sheen. Native to western North America, it thrives in shaded, dry conditions and is excellent for rock gardens or woodland borders.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Goldback Fern grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Goldback fern offers reliable evergreen texture for shaded, dry spots where many ferns struggle, making it a practical choice for water-conserving landscapes. Unlike moisture-dependent fern species, it tolerates established drought and poor soils once established, reducing maintenance in challenging microclimates. The metallic undersides provide subtle visual interest in woodland gardens and rocky outcrops without requiring supplemental water or fertilizer.
Watch out for
Young plants may need consistent moisture during their first growing season to establish; withholding water too early can stress newly planted specimens. In humid climates with poor air circulation, fronds can develop fungal issues, so adequate spacing and ventilation help prevent problems. Handle fronds carefully when relocating or dividing, as they are somewhat brittle and damage reduces the plant's appearance.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Pteridaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
California and southwestern United States
Native to: Arizona, California, Idaho, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Ground cover
Low spreading plants that carpet the soil.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar ground covers you might consider:
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