Specialty ferns, shade plants, and expert garden design for Pacific Northwest homes. Transform your space into a lush botanical retreat.
For over 15 years, Ferncrest has been the trusted source for rare and exotic ferns, shade-loving perennials, and specialty hostas throughout Oregon and Washington. Our family-owned nursery specializes in creating lush, thriving gardens in spaces where other plants struggle—under mature trees, on north-facing slopes, and in shaded courtyards.
We don't just sell plants; we provide expert guidance on soil preparation, microclimate assessment, and long-term plant health. Whether you're starting a woodland garden, restoring a neglected shade bed, or seeking a single showstopper specimen, our horticulturists are here to help you succeed.
Sustainability and responsible propagation are core to our mission. Most of our inventory is greenhouse-grown or ethically collected, ensuring vibrant, acclimated plants that thrive in your garden.
Over 80 varieties of ferns, hostas, hellebores, and bleeding-heart species. From classic Boston ferns to rare Asian varieties, find the perfect specimen for your garden's light and soil conditions.
Our certified horticulturists assess your yard's microclimates, soil conditions, and aesthetic goals to create a custom planting plan. Includes plant lists, spacing guidelines, and seasonal care instructions.
Professional installation of shade gardens, woodland borders, and fern beds. We handle site preparation, soil amendment, planting, and initial establishment care to ensure your investment thrives.
Monthly in-person and online workshops covering fern propagation, shade garden troubleshooting, seasonal maintenance, and design trends. Open to gardeners of all skill levels.
Curated plant shipments nationwide with guaranteed arrival. Local delivery available within 50 miles of Portland—we ensure every plant is thriving before it leaves our hands.
Bring a photo or specimen, and our experts identify plants and diagnose common shade-garden issues—from nutrient deficiencies to pest management—with organic-first solutions.
"We had a dead corner under our oak tree for years. After Ferncrest's design consultation, we planted ferns, hostas, and Japanese painted ferns. Now it's the most beautiful part of our garden. The installation crew was professional and thorough."
— Maria T., Portland, OR
"I ordered three rare maidenhair fern varieties for my terrarium collection. They arrived healthy and vigorous, beautifully packed. The care instructions were so detailed I actually felt confident propagating them."
— James R., Seattle, WA
"Attended their fern propagation workshop last spring. Learned so much about spore propagation and tissue culture. Now I'm raising my own rare varieties. Highly recommend their classes!"
— Sandra L., Eugene, OR
Most ferns thrive in bright, indirect light—dappled shade under trees or a north-facing window indoors. Some species like ostrich ferns tolerate denser shade, while others prefer morning sun. We'll recommend varieties suited to your specific light levels during consultation.
Absolutely! Spore propagation is rewarding but requires patience and humidity. We offer spore kits and our workshops teach step-by-step technique. With practice, you can grow rare varieties that are otherwise hard to find commercially.
Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are ideal in the Pacific Northwest. They allow plants to establish roots before extreme temperatures. Summer planting is possible with extra watering; winter planting risks frost heave. We'll advise based on your location.
Currently, we ship throughout the continental United States with USDA permits. International shipping has complex phytosanitary requirements; contact us for a custom quote if you're outside the US.
We offer in-person visits (Portland metro area, $150 fee, refundable with purchase), virtual consultations via Zoom ($100), or detailed email consultations with photos ($75). All include a personalized plant list and care plan.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (503) 555-0147
Address: 412 Shade Lane, Portland, OR 97214
Hours:
Monday–Friday: 9 AM–6 PM
Saturday: 10 AM–5 PM
Sunday: 11 AM–4 PM
Have questions? Email us anytime. We typically respond within 24 hours.