The netted chain fern is a deciduous herbaceous perennial and is easily grown in organically rich, consistently moist to wet, well-drained, acidic soils in part to full shade.

It does well in average garden soils and will take a considerable amount of sun as long as soils are kept consistently moist.

It grows 1 to 2 feet high and wide, and small animals use it for cover. It spreads by branching and creeping rhizomes and will naturalize over time into large colonies in optimum growing conditions.

The netted chain fern can grow in native, shade, and water gardens. It can grow along shaded streams and in mass plantings or in borders.

Host plant for Herpetogramma Moths and the Florida Fern Caterpillar.