2 named cultivars

fern

Wallich's Fern

Dryopteris wallichiana

Same species

2 named cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

36 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moist

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Himalayas, Mexico, Jamaica

Toxicity

Potentially toxic if ingested.

The Story

Plant Bio

Dryopteris wallichiana, commonly known as the Himalayan Male Fern, is a perennial fern distinguished by its lush, arching fronds with finely divided, dark green leaflets that create a dense, elegant foliage habit. This species is notable for its adaptability to shaded, woodland environments and its ability to thrive in moist, well-drained soils, making it a popular choice for shaded garden areas.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, green foliage that adds texture and shade to garden spaces.

Helps retain soil moisture and prevent erosion in shaded areas.

Supports local wildlife by providing habitat in shaded woodland gardens.

Planting

How to Grow

Select a shaded spot with moist, well-drained soil
Tuck fern spores or divisions into soil in early spring
Mist regularly to keep soil moist and humidity high
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Transplant if necessary during early spring or fall
Water consistently during dry periods

Pro Tip

Maintain consistent moisture and avoid direct sunlight for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Keep soil moist and well-drained 🌱
Mulch to retain soil moisture
Provide shade during hot summer days

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch fronds ❌
Do not let soil dry out completely
Avoid heavy, waterlogged soil

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 borderMoisture-loving garden bed

Companion Plants

Hostas Astilbes Ligularia Japanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Wallich's Fern questions

What zones can Wallich's Fern grow in?

Wallich's Fern is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Wallich's Fern deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Wallich's Fern, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

Does Wallich's Fern need full sun?

Wallich's Fern does best in part shade.