Dryopteris filix-mas 'Cristata'
male fern
This fern is deciduous so all its fronds will die back in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again each spring.
- Position: partial shade
- Soil: moist, humus-rich soil
- Rate of growth: average
- Hardiness: fully hardy
The mid-green fronds are crested at their tips and at the ends of divisions, and form robus, upright shuttlecock-like shapes. A useful groundcover under trees, as it is quite drought tolerant once it has had a chance to become established. Ideal for naturalised planting schemes and woodland gardens, where it mixes well with other shade loving plants such as Hosta, Polygonatum and Helleborus. - Garden care: Incorporate lots of well-rotted leaf mould, composted pine needles or garden compost into the planting hole. Cut back decayed fronds in winter to allow new growth to emerge.