Description
Dryopteris – Buckler Fern – Shield Fern – Wood Fern –
There are about 200 species of terrestrial ferns, in this genus. They occur mainly in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, where they grow in woodland, by stream or lakes, and among mountain rocks. Most are deciduous, or semi evergreen. Pinnate to 4 pinnate, sometimes pinnatisect fronds form shuttlecocks in most cultivated species. Spores are produced in kidney shaped sori. The foliage looks effective with most herbaceous plants and shrubs.
Grow in moist, humus rich soil in partial shade and a sheltered site. Divide mature plants in spring or autumn. Remove fading fronds regularly.
Prone to rust, leaf gall, and fungal spots.
D. affinis ‘Cristat Angustata’ – Dryopteris affinis ‘Cristat Angustata’ – D. borreri – D. pseudomas – Golden Shield Fern – Golden Male Fern – This virtually evergreen fern, grows 12″ inches and wide. It produces shuttlecocks of lance shaped, 2 pinnate or pinnatisect fronds that are 2″ inches wide, from an erect rhizome. The congest fronds are pale green with pinnae twisted at the tips, and as they unfurl in spring, in striking contrast to the scaly, golden brown midribs, they mature to dark green and often remain green through winter.
Zones 6-8
