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Dryopteris carthusiana

narrow buckler fern

A semi-evergreen clump-forming fern with highly dissected and finely toothed foliage creating a lacy appearance.

Other common names
buckler fern
fancy fern
Synonyms
Dryopteris spinulosa
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Chalk
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Neutral, Acid, Alkaline
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full shade
  • Partial shade
Aspect

West–facing or East–facing or North–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Dryopteridaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
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

Name status

Correct

Plant range
N Temperate

How to grow

Cultivation

Best grown in moist but free draining soil in a sheltered shaded or semi shaded location. For more information see our advice page how to grow ferns.

Propagation

Propagate by division or spores

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Underplanting of roses and shrubs
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Remove any dead or damaged fronds in late autumn or early spring before new growth emerges.

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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