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FernsHerbaceous Perennial

Dryopteris cristata

crested buckler fern

A clump-forming fern consisting of semi-evergreen errect fertile fronds with widely spaced leaflets and shorter, arching sterile fronds which are evergreen

Other common names
crested wood fern
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Clay
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drained
pH
Neutral, Acid
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
H6
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
Temp. N. Hemisphere

How to grow

Cultivation

Best grown in moist (but not waterlogged) neutral or acid soils in partial shade. See how to grow ferns for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by division or spores

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

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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