Species

Dryopteris dilatataBroad Buckler Fern

3 other cultivars

fernN. America Native

Broad Buckler Fern 'Recurved Form'

Dryopteris dilatata 'Recurved Form'

The Story

Plant Bio

Dryopteris dilatata, the broad buckler fern, is a hardy perennial fern with large, arching fronds that display a lush green foliage and a graceful, spreading habit, thriving in shaded, moist environments.

The Recurved Form cultivar is distinguished by its distinctive recurved fronds, adding architectural interest and a unique silhouette to shaded garden areas.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush greenery and texture to shaded garden areas.

Helps retain soil moisture and prevent erosion in shady spots.

Supports local insect populations and improves air quality.

SpeciesDryopteris dilatataBroad Buckler Fern

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

36 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Consistently moist

Humidity

Prefers high humidity

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

Europe, Western Asia

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested.

Bloom period

Early spring – Early fall

In flower about 7 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a shaded area with rich, moist soil.
Tuck fern spores or small plants into prepared soil.
Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil consistently moist.
Mist the foliage regularly to maintain humidity.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Transplant in early spring or fall for best results.

Pro Tip

Ensure consistent moisture and avoid direct sunlight for healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to retain soil moisture
Prune dead fronds in early spring

Don't

Avoid excessive sunlight ☀️
Do not let soil dry out
Avoid heavy fertilization

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shady woodland gardenMoist border with lush greenery

Companion Plants

Hostas Astilbes Ferns LigulariaJapanese Iris

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Broad Buckler Fern 'Recurved Form' questions

What zones can Broad Buckler Fern 'Recurved Form' grow in?

Broad Buckler Fern 'Recurved Form' is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Broad Buckler Fern 'Recurved Form' deer resistant?

Yes — Broad Buckler Fern 'Recurved Form' is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Broad Buckler Fern 'Recurved Form' bloom?

Broad Buckler Fern 'Recurved Form' typically blooms in early spring through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Broad Buckler Fern 'Recurved Form' need full sun?

Broad Buckler Fern 'Recurved Form' does best in part shade.