Pyrrosia hastata aka Three Finger Tongue Fern

Pyrrosia hastata is an evergreen fern in the polypody family, Polypodiaceae. Common names include felt fern and three finger fern. It comes from China, Japan, and Korea. Its Chinese range includes Anhui. In the wild, it grows on tree trunks and damp, mossy rocks. It lives in both mountain sites and fields. This epiphytic fern spreads through rhizomes and forms low, creeping mounds.

Garden plants reach about 0.5–1.5 feet [0.15–0.46 metres] tall. NC State also lists heights up to 1.67 feet [0.51 metres]. Their spread reaches 1–3 feet [0.30–0.91 metres]. Growth is slow, and the fronds remain green year-round. Each thick, leathery frond has three lobes and a spear-like outline. The upper face is medium green, with a green midrib. A long green stipe holds each frond above the rhizome. The edges between the lobes are smooth. Star-shaped scales cover the underside in gray to copper-brown tones. These scales give the fronds their soft, felt-like feel.

This fern makes neither flowers nor fruit. Instead, it reproduces through spores. Its sporangia change from yellow on young fronds to black on mature ones. Gardeners can also raise new plants by division or rhizome cuttings. Its lasting foliage suits shaded borders and small garden spaces. It also grows in pots and hanging baskets. Rock gardens and woodland gardens offer other uses for its low mounds.

Give it partial to full shade and soil rich in organic matter. The soil should stay moist but drain well. NC State lists acid, neutral, and alkaline soils as suitable. The plant does best at 60–75°F with 50–80% humidity. It grows outdoors in USDA zones 8–10. Plants in zone 8 may need winter protection. Once established, it can cope with drought and heat. Deer and rabbits tend to leave it alone. NC State rates its upkeep as low.

Watch for spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. Too much water can lead to root rot. Very humid conditions can favour fungal leaf spot and botrytis. Good airflow helps limit these problems. Strong sun can scorch the fronds. Dry air, direct sun, or chlorinated tap water may turn them brown. The species resists verticillium wilt. The supplied sources give no information on edibility or toxicity.