3 named cultivars

fern

Bisset's Wood Fern

Dryopteris bissetiana

Same species

3 named cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

24 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Consistent moisture

Humidity

Prefers high humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan, China, Korea

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Dryopteris bissetiana, commonly known as Bisset's Wood Fern, is a deciduous fern distinguished by its lush, arching fronds with finely divided, dark green foliage that forms dense clumps in shaded, woodland environments. This fern is notable for its vigorous growth habit and its ability to tolerate a range of soil conditions, making it an excellent choice for shaded garden areas and woodland gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, evergreen foliage year-round, ideal for shaded gardens.

Helps retain soil moisture and prevent erosion in shaded areas.

Supports local insect populations and provides habitat in woodland gardens.

Planting

How to Grow

Select a shaded site with moist, well-drained soil.
Tuck fern spores or divisions into prepared soil in early spring.
Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Mist foliage during dry spells to maintain humidity.
Divide every 3-4 years in early spring to refresh growth.

Pro Tip

Ensure consistent moisture and shade for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to conserve soil moisture
Divide in early spring to promote healthy growth

Don't

Avoid drought conditions ❌
Do not expose to direct, harsh sunlight
Refrain from over-fertilizing

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

Shaded woodland borderMoist shady garden bed

Companion Plants

Hosta Astilbe Trillium

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Bisset's Wood Fern questions

What zones can Bisset's Wood Fern grow in?

Bisset's Wood Fern 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 Bisset's Wood Fern deer resistant?

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

When does Bisset's Wood Fern bloom?

Bisset's Wood 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 Bisset's Wood Fern need full sun?

Bisset's Wood Fern does best in part shade.