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FernsHerbaceous Perennial

Dryopteris filix-mas 'Decomposita'

male fern 'Decomposita'

A deciduous fern with stout erect fronds and broadly lance shaped green leaflets. This cultivar displays more divided foliage than D. felix-mas

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
No
Foliage
Deciduous
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

Accepted

How to grow

Cultivation

Grows best in moist but free draining soils in partial or full shade. Can tolerate sun if soil remains moist. See how to grow ferns for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by division

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

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

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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