Dryopteris intermedia
fancy fern
A clump-forming, evergreen fern with upright to arching, triangular fronds divided into lance-shaped, toothed, mid-green leaflets or pinnae. The underside of mature fronds are often covered in fine hairs.
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Neutral, AcidColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Dryopteridaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Dryopteris can be deciduous, semi-evergreen or evergreen ferns, with stout, erect or decumbent rhizomes and shuttlecock-like rosettes of lance-shaped to ovate, pinnately divided fronds
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- NE USA
How to grow
Cultivation
Plant in a moist but well-drained, neutral to acid soil in full or partial shade with shelter from strong winds. Mulch soils to help maintain moisture levels. For more information see our advice page how to grow ferns.
Propagation
Propagate by division or spores
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Low Maintenance
- Underplanting of roses and shrubs
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Remove any dead or damaged fronds as required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.