The Prickly Rasp Fern, “Doodia aspera”, is a striking woodland plant native to the east coast of Australia. Commonly found in forested areas, it thrives as an understory species in rainforests and shaded woodlands.
Also known as Doodia aspera ‘Rough Ruby’ or Hacksaw Fern ‘Rough Ruby’, this brilliant low-growing fern makes an excellent ground cover for shaded gardens. Its standout feature is the new foliage that emerges in shades of pink to bright deep red before maturing to a rich mid-to-deep green.
Naturally compact and low-growing, Doodia aspera spreads slowly via underground rhizomes, eventually forming dense tufts and clumps over time. The upright fronds—reaching around 35 cm in height—hold themselves proudly, showcasing that eye-catching new growth to full effect.
This versatile fern works beautifully as a ground cover in shaded spots or as a potted specimen on patios and courtyards.
Landscaping uses
Doodia aspera excels in landscaping thanks to its adaptability to a range of light conditions (from dappled to deep shade) and its easy-care, ground-covering habit. It forms attractive carpets beneath larger trees and is especially suited for planting under tree ferns (including dwarf varieties), where it creates lush, layered understory effects.
The rough-textured, toothed fronds add interesting contrast, while the seasonal flush of red-pink new growth provides vibrant spring and early summer color in shaded areas.
Suited to growing under Tree Ferns including dwarf tree ferns
How to Grow Doodia aspera – Basic Care
This fern is regarded as drought-tolerant once established and requires low maintenance. It performs best in a frost-free position—though as a natural understory plant, frost is rarely an issue in most growing areas.
Doodia aspera grows well in part shade and performs at its best in humus-rich soil with protection from hot afternoon sun. It handles a range of conditions but prefers consistently moist (not waterlogged) soil with good drainage.
When planting
- Prepare the soil by digging over well and adding some well rotted compost.
- Water in new plants with a diluted liquid seaweed fertiliser.
- Water during extended dry periods through the first summer.
- Mulch around plants each spring to maintain a cool root run.
- Old dead fronds can be pruned away as required.
In containers or hanging baskets, position in shade and take extra care with watering to prevent drying out. Repot every 3–4 years as the plant outgrows its pot.
Pruning
Although evergreen, many gardeners prune away old growth at the end of winter (before new shoots emerge) to let the fresh, colorful foliage take center stage.
Propagation
Over time, plants spread naturally via underground rhizomes. Propagate by division of established clumps or from spores for new plants.
Other Information
Doodia aspera holds historical significance as the first Australian fern collected and sent to Kew Gardens. It grows particularly well in leaf litter beneath large trees and proves a hardy, adaptable choice for many gardens.
Other Fern Species
- Doodia media – Common Rasp Fern
Where To Buy
138 Olinda-Monbulk Rd, Olinda VIC 3788
"Large range of rare and unusual plants.."
www.gentiananursery.com.au
Summary Information
- Botanical Name :Doodia aspera
- Common Name : Doodia aspera ‘Rough Ruby’, Prickly Rasp Fern, Hacksaw fern ‘Rough Ruby’
- Family : Blechnaceae
- Position : Dappled shade to deeper shade.
- Soil : Humus rich moist.
- Height : To around 35 cm
- Spread : Natural spread by rhizomes.
- Foliage : New foliage pink to red. Older Foliage, deep green.
- Flowers : N/A
- Frost tolerant : No
- Drought tolerant : Medium to good.