Phegopteris hexagonoptera, commonly known as the Broad Beech Fern or Southern Beech Fern, is a deciduous fern native to eastern North America. This plant thrives in moist, rich, well-drained, acidic soils, typically found in woodlands, ravines, and rocky slopes. It prefers partial to deep shade but can occasionally be found in sunnier, drier areas. The Southern Beech Fern forms a graceful, arching clump of fronds that are broadly triangular, and slightly hairy on the underside, giving the plant a delicate texture.

Southern Beech Fern has the ability to spread rapidly through creeping rhizomes, which make it an optimal groundcover in its preferred growing conditions. Its dense foliage provides excellent cover for small mammals and other wildlife, making it the perfect understory plant for soft landings around the bases of trees.

This fern is also resistant to deer and rabbits, making it a resilient choice for naturalized areas and shade gardens.