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Gymnocarpium dryopteris![RHS AGM](/assets/styles/images/icons/RHS-AGM--Small-Vert__web.svg)
oak fern
A deciduous fern to 30cm tall, forming extensive colonies of bright green, triangular, 2 to 3-pinnate fronds 10-20cm long and wide
![](https://apps.rhs.org.uk/plantselectorimages/detail/WSY0042502_4482.jpg)
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Green | |||
Autumn | Green | |||
Winter |
Position
- Full shade
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Woodsiaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Matforming
- Genus
Gymnocarpium are small deciduous ferns with a slender creeping rhizome, and much-divided, triangular to ovate fronds
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Temp. N. Hemisphere
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a neutral to acid, leafy, moist soil, enriched with garden compost, in deep shade. See how to grow ferns for further advice
Propagation
Sow spores at 15°C (59°F) when ripe or divide in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Cottage and informal garden
- Flower borders and beds
- Ground cover
Pruning
Cut back in autumn as fronds fade
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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