Struthiopteris castanea, commonly known as Chestnut Fern, is a deciduous fern native to Japan, where it thrives in the understory of deciduous woodlands, often on moist, well-drained slopes. It is typically found in the dappled shade of forests, which provides the cool, humid conditions it prefers. This fern grows at a moderate rate to a height and width of 1-1.5 feet (0.3-0.5 meters), forming dense clumps of arching, pinnate fronds. The fronds are bright green and turn a golden-yellow hue before they die back in the fall, adding seasonal interest to the garden.

Chestnut Fern is valued for its lush foliage and ability to fill in shaded areas, making it an excellent choice for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and as a ground cover under larger trees. It is also used to stabilize soil on slopes due to its clumping habit. In cultivation, it requires part shade to maintain its vibrant color and avoid scorching. It prefers consistently moist, well-draining soils, such as medium draining loam or clay, and benefits from regular watering, especially during dry periods. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Gardeners should be mindful of providing adequate space for the fern to spread without crowding other plants.CC BY-SA 4.0