Species broad buckler fern
lime foliage with green stems

broad buckler fern

Dryopteris dilatata

The broad buckler fern (Dryopteris dilatata) is an amazing plant species due to its signature large, glossy, circular, and deeply divided fronds. It has a fast rate of growth and is quite hardy - able to tolerate dry spells, and large variations in temperature, light, and air. The fronds will remain evergreen throughout the winter months even in the coldest climates. During the summer, the broad buckler fern can reach heights of up to four feet, making a striking visual impact in any garden. Its leaves are also used medicinally as an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent. This is an extremely versatile plant species that should definitely be considered for any garden.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Spore Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 9

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers

Sun:

Part shade,full shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow,brown

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

In general, broad buckler fern (Dryopteris dilatata) require weekly watering and should be kept evenly moist. During the summer, when the plant is actively growing, water deeply so that the soil is thorough moistened. In winter, allow the top inch of soil to dry completely before watering. During this period, reduce watering to once every 2 to 3 weeks. If grown in a pot, check the soil daily to make sure the plant has the water it needs. As a rule of thumb, when in doubt, it's better to water once too much rather than to allow the plant to dry out, since dryness can cause it to suffer from drought stress.

sunlight

Broad buckler ferns prefer indirect sunlight or medium to low light levels. They will tolerate full sun if the soil is kept evenly moist but need protection from afternoon sun, which can burn the fronds. For optimal growth, give the fern 4-6 hours of bright, indirect light each day. If grown indoors, make sure it is at least 3 feet away from the window to avoid direct sunlight. This plant species does not do well in very dark places, as it needs some light to photosynthesize and gain energy.

pruning

Broad buckler ferns should be pruned in late winter to early spring before new growth begins. Pruning should be light and only necessary to remove dead or diseased fronds or to maintain desired shape. Remove brown and yellow fronds at their base. Cut fern foliage back to 3-5 inches from the crown. Do not over-prune as this could potentially harm or even kill the plant.

Season

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

Broad buckler ferns typically flower in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Starts Flowering

Broad buckler ferns typically flower in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Hardiness Map