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Dryopteris carthusiana

narrow buckler fern

A semi-evergreen clump forming fern with highly dissected and finely toothed foliage creating a lacy appearance.

Other common names
buckler fern
fancy fern
Synonyms
Dryopteris spinulosa
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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
Chalk
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Neutral, Acid, Alkaline
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full shade
  • Partial shade
Aspect

West–facing or East–facing or North–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Dryopteridaceae
Native to the UK
Yes
Foliage
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
N Temperate

How to grow

Cultivation

Best grown in moist but free draining soil in a sheltered shaded or semi shaded location. 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 in late autumn or early spring before new growth emerges.

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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