Buy male fern Dryopteris filix-mas

Dryopteris filix-mas

male fern

An award-winning native, male fern found naturally in moist woodlands around the UK. This large, deciduous fern has feathery, green fronds which form a distinctive, shuttlecock shape and turn coppery in autumn.

Dryopteris filix-mas makes a fine companion for shade-loving woodland plants, especially other ferns, and when its leaves die back, the space can be filled with early flowering spring bulbs such as snowdrops.

How to care for Dryopteris filix-mas:

Plant in moist, well-drained soil in partial to full shade. Dryopteris thrives in humus-rich conditions, so mix plenty of well-rotted leaf mould, composted pine needles, or garden compost into the planting hole.

Water regularly during dry spells, especially in the first year while the roots establish. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as ferns prefer consistent moisture. In autumn and winter, remove any dead or damaged fronds to keep the plant looking tidy and to allow space for fresh growth in spring.

Mulching with organic matter in spring helps retain moisture and adds nutrients, supporting healthy, lush fronds year after year.

Eventual height:

Eventual spread:

Position:

Light shade

Rate of growth:

Fast-growing

Soil:

Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil

Hardiness:

Fully hardy

This fern is deciduous so all its fronds will die back in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again each spring.