About
Dryopteris affinis subsp. affinis, the scaly male fern, is a robust, semi-evergreen or evergreen fern forming a large, handsome shuttlecock of erect, broadly lance-shaped fronds to around 90 cm long, with golden-brown, scaly stalks. A reliable and ornamental fern for a shaded border or woodland garden.
About the genus
Dryopteris, the shield ferns, are deciduous, semi-evergreen or evergreen ferns forming shuttlecock-like rosettes of lance-shaped to broadly triangular, pinnately divided fronds on stout rhizomes. They range from compact rock garden species to large, architectural woodland ferns and are among the most useful and adaptable of all garden ferns.
Plant details
Suggested usesShade gardens, woodland, containers.
Care notes
CultivationPlant in moist, humus-rich soil in shade.
PruningRemove old fronds in spring as new growth emerges.
PropagationDivide established clumps or grow from spores.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free. Monitor for common garden pests.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant. Ensure good air circulation.