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Dryopteris lepidopoda

sunset fern

A clump-forming, evergreen fern with upright to slightly arching fronds emerging salmon-pink to orange-red when young, then yellow, and maturing to dark green as the seasons progress

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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Neutral, Acid
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Pink Orange
Summer Pink Orange
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full shade
  • Partial shade
Aspect

West–facing or East–facing or North–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Dryopteridaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen or Semi 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
Himalaya China Taiwan

How to grow

Cultivation

Plant in a moist but well drained, preferably neutral to acid loam in partial to full shade. Tolerant of dry shade once established but water regularly in their first season and mulch well. Dislikes excessive winter wet. See how to grow ferns for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by division or from 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 old or damaged fronds in mid spring if required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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