Evergreen Ferns for the Woodland Garden

Evergreen Ferns for the Woodland Garden

An Introduction to Autumn Ferns and Holly Ferns

By Published July 13, 2017 Updated April 18, 2023

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The following article is part of a series geared toward entry-level gardeners. For deep dives into many of the plants that we have sold over the years, visit our archive of in-depth perennial articles written by Tony Avent, Dr. Patrick McMillan, and other Plant Delights and JLBG experts. We also have transcripts of our Gardening Unplugged videos, recorded during our Open Nursery and Garden Days, that have great information for gardeners of all experience levels.

The woodland shade garden can be a challenging environment for many plants, but evergreen ferns such as Dryopteris and Cyrtomium thrive in this unique habitat. These two genera of ferns have become popular choices among gardeners for their striking fronds and low-maintenance care. In this article, we will explore the different species of Dryopteris and Cyrtomium that are well-suited for the woodland shade garden, and offer tips on how to cultivate and care for them to ensure they thrive in this environment. Whether you are an experienced gardener or just starting out, this guide will provide you with valuable information to create a beautiful and flourishing woodland shade garden with Dryopteris and Cyrtomium ferns.

Dryopteris (Autumn Fern)

Dryopteris goes by many common names including Autumn Fern, Wood Fern, and Male Fern. These evergreen ferns are easily grown in average, slightly acidic, medium to wet soils in part shade to full shade. A woodland garden setting is best. The autumn fern prefers a consistently moist soil (never allowing to dry out) that is rich in organic matter. Dryopteris should be sheltered from strong winds to protect the fronds. These ferns spread slowly over time by short creeping rhizomes.
Image of Dryopteris koidzumiana
Dryopteris koidzumiana

Our Favorite Dryopteris

Dryopteris koidzumiana (Koidzumi's Autumn Fern) is native to Japan and prefers a warmer climate. The foliage emerges brilliant russet red and, when mature, gets 2' and 2' wide. Dryopteris erythrosora var. prolifica (Prolific Lacy Autumn Fern) is another evergreen autumn fern that is easy to grow and has a unique lacy leaf form that emerges cinnamon red. This fern is native to woodland hillsides and mountain slopes in Japan, China and Taiwan.

Dryopteris uniformis 'Cristata' (Uniformed Petticoat Male Fern) is one of our favorites and a native to the woodland mountains of Asia. The tip of each pinnae (leaflet) resembles a tiny petticoat hence the common name. This is a superb, easy-to-grow fern and has been a part of our woodland garden for over two decades.

How to Grow Dryopteris

Dryopteris ferns are a beautiful addition to any outdoor garden or landscape. Here are some tips for growing Dryopteris ferns outside:

  1. Light: Dryopteris ferns prefer partial to full shade. Avoid planting them in direct sunlight as this can scorch the leaves.

  2. Watering: These ferns prefer moist, but not waterlogged soil. Water them regularly, especially during hot and dry periods, but make sure the soil has good drainage to prevent root rot.

  3. Soil: Dryopteris ferns prefer well-draining, rich soil. Mix in organic matter such as compost or peat moss to improve soil quality.

  4. Fertilizer: Feed Dryopteris ferns with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) to encourage healthy growth.

  5. Mulching: Applying a layer of organic mulch, such as bark or leaves, around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

  6. Winter care: Dryopteris ferns are hardy to USDA zones 3-8 and can withstand cold temperatures. However, it's a good idea to mulch around the base of the plant in late fall to protect the roots from freezing temperatures.

  7. Pruning: Remove any dead or yellowing fronds in the fall or early spring to encourage new growth and maintain the plant's shape.

With proper care, your Dryopteris fern should thrive in an outdoor setting, adding a beautiful touch of green to your garden or landscape. These ferns are relatively low-maintenance and can grow quite large, making them an excellent choice for naturalizing woodland areas or adding texture to shaded borders

Cyrtomium (Holly Ferns)

For that shady spot, you can't go wrong with holly ferns. Their evergreen fronds always look good and they mix well with other shade plants in the woodland garden. They can be planted close together and used as a ground cover} or planted as accent plants where the soil is rich and well drained. They can also be potted in planters on a shady patio. Holly ferns are named for the pointy tips on their leathery leaves.

Our Favorite Cyrtomium

Cyrtomium fortunei 'China Ruffles' is one of our own introductions of holly ferns from a selection of Cyrtomium fortunei native to the mountains of China. The ruffled foliage and dark stems make this fern a real stand-out in the shade garden.

Cyrtomium fortunei 'Ulleung Island' is our own spore-grown introduction collected from our 1997 expedition to to Ulleung Island off the coast of Korea. This amazing specimen matures to a 4' wide clump and makes an impressive statement in any woodland garden.

Tips for Growing Cyrtomium

Cyrtomium ferns are a great addition to any outdoor garden or landscape. Here are some tips for growing Cyrtomium ferns outside:

  1. Light: Cyrtomium ferns prefer partial to full shade. Avoid planting them in direct sunlight as this can scorch the leaves.

  2. Watering: These ferns like to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water them regularly, especially during hot and dry periods, but make sure the soil has good drainage to prevent root rot.

  3. Soil: Cyrtomium ferns prefer well-draining, rich soil. Mix in organic matter such as compost or peat moss to improve soil quality.

  4. Fertilizer: Feed Cyrtomium ferns with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) to encourage healthy growth.

  5. Mulching: Applying a layer of organic mulch, such as bark or leaves, around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

  6. Winter care: Cyrtomium ferns are hardy to USDA zones 6-10 and can withstand cold temperatures. However, it's a good idea to mulch around the base of the plant in late fall to protect the roots from freezing temperatures.

  7. Pruning: Remove any dead or yellowing fronds in the fall or early spring to encourage new growth and maintain the plant's shape.

With proper care, your Cyrtomium fern should thrive in an outdoor setting, adding a beautiful touch of green to your garden or landscape.

In conclusion, Dryopteris and Cyrtomium ferns are excellent choices for the woodland shade garden. With their unique fronds and low-maintenance care, these ferns provide an attractive and naturalistic element to any landscape. By selecting the appropriate species, providing adequate soil, water, and light, and following the tips outlined in this article, gardeners can cultivate healthy and thriving ferns in their woodland shade gardens. Remember to select the species that are best suited for your climate and garden conditions, and be patient as these ferns can take time to establish themselves. With a little bit of care and attention, your Dryopteris and Cyrtomium ferns will flourish and add a beautiful touch to your woodland garden for years to come.

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