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Dryopteris dilatata 'Lepidota Cristata'
  • RHS AGM

broad buckler fern 'Lepidota Cristata'

A semi-evergreen fern forming a rosette of crested, tripinnate, triangular-ovate fronds with narrow segments giving a lacy appearance

Synonyms
Dryopteris austriaca 'Lepidota Cristata'
Dryopteris dilatata 'Lepidota'
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or East–facing or North–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Dryopteridaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Bushy
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

Accepted

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in a moist, humus-rich but well-drained soil in partial shade. Will thrive in full sun if there is moisture at the roots. See how to grow ferns for further advice

Propagation

Sow spores at 15°C (59°F) as soon as ripe or divide mature plants in spring or autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Underplanting of roses and shrubs
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

In spring remove untidy fronds to encourage new growth

Pests

Generally pest-free, but moth larvae may feed on spores

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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