Evergreen and semi-evergreen Dryopteris

Finely divided or feathery foliage emerges from unfurling fronds in spring to form a shuttlecock-like shape. Foliage comes in many shades of green with some species, such as Dryopteris erythrosora, also showing seasonal colour.

These ferns like moist soil in shade and so appreciate yearly applications of organic material such as garden compost as a mulch for the first few years after planting. Once established, they can tolerate drier soil.

Full sun in summer can scorch the leaves of these plants. An open site exposed to strong winds (especially if frost-laden) can damage young growth. Some species can be more tolerant of sun and exposure. Dislikes very dry soils while establishing.

Ferns grow from spores, not seeds. Various shaped swellings (sori) containing the spores can be seen on the undersides of fronds. With a bit of practice and patience new plants can be grown from the spores.