Dryopteris carthusiana (narrow buckler fern) — Fern

Overview

Dryopteris carthusiana is a fern in the genus Dryopteris, part of the Dryopteridaceae family. It typically grows around 1.0 m tall. Dryopteris carthusiana grows best in partial shade and shade, and tolerates most soils and acidic and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include woodland gardens, shade gardens and naturalizing. It is native to N Temperate.

About the genus

Dryopteris, commonly called the wood ferns, male ferns, or buckler ferns, is a fern genus in the family Dryopteridaceae, subfamily Dryopteridoideae, according to the Pteridophyte Phylogeny Group classification of 2016 (PPG I). There are about 300-400 species in the genus. The species are distributed in Asia, the Americas, Europe, Africa, and the Pacific islands, with the highest diversity in eastern Asia.

Wikipedia contributors, "Dryopteris", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Dryopteris

In the garden

Dryopteris carthusiana, the narrow buckler fern, is a perennial fern native to northern temperate regions. It normally forms upright fronds to around 1.0 m and is present through the winter season, making it a useful structural plant where shade and moisture coincide. Its hardiness rating is H6 (very hardy) and it corresponds to USDA zones 6–8. Position the plant in partial shade or full shade on a sheltered aspect — north, east or west exposures are all suitable. It tolerates a broad range of soils (sandy, loamy or clay) provided they remain moist; it will also tolerate wetter pockets so long as there is some drainage. The species prefers acidic to neutral pH. Allow space for its mature height when siting it in borders or beneath trees, and avoid exposed, sunny sites where fronds can scorch. In a UK garden it performs well in woodland schemes, shaded borders and areas intended for naturalising beneath tree canopies. Planting in groups or drifts helps it read as a groundlayer plant rather than an isolated specimen. The fronds remain visible through winter, supplying structural form and cover beneath deciduous trees when many herbaceous neighbours have died back.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Dryopteris

Sunlight: Partial shade, Shade
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil pH: Acidic, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained, Wet
Aspect: North, East, West
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H6

Plant details

Dryopteris carthusiana size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Fern
Height: 1.0 m
Suggested uses: Woodland gardens, Shade gardens, Naturalizing
Native to: N Temperate

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Dryopteris carthusiana

Cultivation: Prefers moist, humus-rich soil in shaded or semi-shaded locations; avoid dry conditions
Pruning: Remove dead or damaged fronds in early spring
Propagation: Spores, Division

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Dryopteris carthusiana?

Prefers moist, humus-rich soil in shaded or semi-shaded locations; avoid dry conditions.

Where is the best place to plant Dryopteris carthusiana?

Dryopteris carthusiana prefers partial shade and shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Dryopteris carthusiana need?

Dryopteris carthusiana is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It prefers acidic and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to wet.