Overview

Dryopteris sieboldii is a clump forming ferns in the genus Dryopteris, part of the Dryopteridaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 5-10 years. Dryopteris sieboldii grows best in full shade and partial shade, and tolerates clay and loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. It is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit and low maintenance. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens and patio and container plants. It is native to Japan Taiwan China.

About

This evergreen fern features a short, creeping rhizome and robust, leathery fronds that display a bluish-green hue. The fronds are characterized by their limited segmentation, giving them a distinctive appearance.

About the genus

Dryopteris consists of ferns that may be deciduous, semi-evergreen, or evergreen. They feature robust, upright or sprawling rhizomes and form rosettes of fronds that are either lanceolate or ovate in shape, with a pinnate division.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Dryopteris

Sunlight
Full shade, Partial shade
Soil type
Clay, Loam
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Dryopteris sieboldii size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Ferns
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
0.5-1 metres
Spread
0.5-1 metres
Time to full height
5-10 years
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Patio and container plants
Native to
Japan Taiwan China

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Dryopteris sieboldii

Cultivation
Requires moist, humus-rich soil in partial shade with shelter, but thrives in hot climates. See how to grow ferns for further advice
Pruning
Remove dead or damages fronds as required
Propagation
Propagate by spores, or by division in spring or autumn
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Dryopteris sieboldii?

Requires moist, humus-rich soil in partial shade with shelter, but thrives in hot climates. See how to grow ferns for further advice.

Where is the best place to plant Dryopteris sieboldii?

Dryopteris sieboldii prefers full shade and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Dryopteris sieboldii need?

Dryopteris sieboldii grows best in clay and loam soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Dryopteris sieboldii?

Remove dead or damages fronds as required.

How big does Dryopteris sieboldii grow?

Dryopteris sieboldii reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 5-10 years to reach full size.

Is Dryopteris sieboldii hardy in the UK?

Dryopteris sieboldii has a UK hardiness rating of H6.

How do I propagate Dryopteris sieboldii?

Propagate by spores, or by division in spring or autumn.