About

This clump-forming, semi-evergreen fern attaining around 1 metre and bearing errect to arching green fronds.

About the genus

Dryopteris can be deciduous, semi-evergreen or evergreen ferns, with stout, erect or decumbent rhizomes and shuttlecock-like rosettes of lance-shaped to ovate, pinnately divided fronds

Growing conditions

SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Clay
Soil pHNeutral, Acid, Alkaline
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, West-facing, North-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5

Plant details

Plant typeFerns
HabitClump forming
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
Native toMexico to Guatemala

Care notes

CultivationGrows well in most moist but free draining soil in shade or partial shade. See how to grow ferns for further advice
PruningNo pruning required, but old or faded fronds can be removed as needed
PropagationPropagate by division or spores
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free