Species wood fern
lush-green leaves on light-green petioles and stems

wood fern

Dryopteris carthusiana

The Dryopteris carthusiana, more commonly known as the wood fern, is an amazing plant species to behold. This hardy fern features tough fronds that are capable of withstanding any type of weather conditions - from light frost to extreme drought. The fronds grow in a zigzag pattern which makes it aesthetically pleasing and perfect for garden spaces. Its soil preference is mostly damp and its fronds turn an earthy shade of dark brown during the winter months. An interesting feature of the Wood Fern is its ability to form large colonies. Its foliage can be a great accent for any garden design. With its evergreen foliage and attractive texture, it is no wonder why this fern is so popular.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Spore Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers

Sun:

Part shade,full shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow,brown

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Wood Ferns should be watered 1-2 times a week, depending on the amount of sunlight and heat the plant receives. In warm weather, they need more frequent waterings every 3-4 days. Water the plant deeply so that the soil is moist throughout, not just the top few inches. Allow enough time for the water to properly soak into the soil, and then let the top layer of soil dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot or other issues. In general, soil should be slightly moist, but not soggy when touched. Fertilizer should be applied twice a month in the spring and summer to help the plant thrive. Reduce the frequency of fertilizer in the winter months.

sunlight

Wood ferns should be placed in an area that receives plenty of sunlight each day. If grown outdoors, the plant should be placed in an area that receives a least 4 hours of indirect sunlight in the morning and 4 hours of direct sunlight during the afternoon. If grown indoors, wood ferns should be placed in a spot that receives indirect sunlight throughout the day. With the right amount and timing of sunlight, wood ferns grow and flourish.

pruning

Wood ferns should be pruned back at the end of winter, as soon as the soil thaws and before new growth emerges. Prune back up to 2-thirds of the frond length, taking care to retain the basic shape of the bush. It is not necessary to prune every plant, only the overgrown or dead fronds. Doing so will help promote new growth and ensure the plant remains attractive.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Wood ferns typically start flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Starts Flowering

Wood ferns typically start flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Hardiness Map