Overview
Dryopteris x convoluta subsp. convoluta is a clump forming ferns in the genus Dryopteris, part of the Dryopteridaceae family, with semi evergreen foliage. Dryopteris x convoluta subsp. convoluta grows best in full shade and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include underplanting of roses and shrubs, flower borders and beds, cottage and informal garden and low maintenance.
About
Dryopteris x convoluta subsp. convoluta is a semi-evergreen, clump-forming fern cultivar within the Dryopteris genus, known for its robust rhizomes and pinnate fronds. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils rich in humus and prefers shaded, sheltered aspects such as north, east, or west-facing locations. Hardy to UK zone H5, this fern is suitable for underplanting roses and shrubs, as well as for use in flower borders, cottage gardens, and informal settings. Its season of interest spans spring and summer, making it a low-maintenance addition to shaded garden areas.
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
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Dryopteris
- Sunlight
- Full shade, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Clay, Sand, Chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Dryopteris x convoluta subsp. convoluta size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Ferns
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Underplanting of roses and shrubs, Flower borders and beds, Cottage and informal garden, Low Maintenance
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Dryopteris x convoluta subsp. convoluta
- Propagation
- Division, Spores
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Dryopteris x convoluta subsp. convoluta?
Dryopteris x convoluta subsp. convoluta prefers full shade and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Dryopteris x convoluta subsp. convoluta need?
Dryopteris x convoluta subsp. convoluta is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including loam, clay, sand and chalk. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Dryopteris x convoluta subsp. convoluta hardy in the UK?
Dryopteris x convoluta subsp. convoluta has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Dryopteris x convoluta subsp. convoluta?
Division, Spores.
