The Story
Plant Bio
Dryopteris dilatata 'Jimmy Dyce' is a lush, deciduous fern distinguished by its broad, pinnate fronds and dense, arching growth habit, providing a rich green foliage display in shaded garden areas.
This cultivar is notable for its vigorous growth and large, attractive fronds that create a striking visual impact, making it ideal for woodland gardens and shaded landscapes.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Fern
Height
36 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moist
Humidity
Prefers humid environments
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe, Western Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Early spring – Late fall
In flower about 9 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a shaded spot with moist, well-drained soil.
- Tuck spores or divisions into prepared soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings or new divisions regularly to maintain moisture.
- Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture for 6 weeks.
- Water consistently during dry spells, especially in summer.
- Prune dead or damaged fronds in early spring to promote healthy growth.
Pro Tip
Ensure consistent moisture and avoid direct sunlight for best growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Prune dead fronds in early spring
Don't
- Avoid direct sun exposure 🌞
- Do not let soil dry out completely
- Refrain from over-fertilizing
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Broad Buckler-fern questions
What zones can Broad Buckler-fern grow in?
Broad Buckler-fern is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. 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 deer resistant?
Yes — Broad Buckler-fern is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Broad Buckler-fern bloom?
Broad Buckler-fern typically blooms in early spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Broad Buckler-fern need full sun?
Broad Buckler-fern does best in part shade.
More Dryopteris to compare
Log Fern
Dryopteris x separabilis
Shreveport Log Fern
Dryopteris x celsa 'Shreveport'
Autumn Fern
Dryopteris erythrosora
Western Wood Fern The King Fern
Dryopteris affinis 'The King'
Shaggy Shield Fern
Dryopteris cycadina
Wallich's Wood Fern
Dryopteris wallichiana 'Tucumanji'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Broad Buckler-fern with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.