fern

Mountain Wood Fern

Dryopteris campyloptera

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

24 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Consistently moist soil

Humidity

Prefers high humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Dryopteris campyloptera, commonly known as the Mountain Wood Fern, is a deciduous fern characterized by its broad, arching, finely-divided, bright green fronds that form dense, attractive clumps. This species is valued for its tolerance of dry shade and its ability to thrive in woodland gardens, providing year-round texture and interest.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, evergreen foliage that enhances shaded garden areas.

Helps retain soil moisture and prevent erosion in shaded spots.

Supports local pollinators and provides habitat for small wildlife.

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a shaded location with moist, well-drained soil.
Tuck fern spores or divisions into prepared soil in early spring.
Mist regularly to keep soil moist, especially in dry periods.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced organic fertilizer.
Transplant if necessary during early spring or fall.

Pro Tip

Ensure consistent moisture and avoid direct sunlight for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Keep soil consistently moist 🌱
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
Over-fertilizing can cause weak growth

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 borderMoisture-loving garden bed

Companion Plants

Hostas Astilbes Heucheras Ferns Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Mountain Wood Fern questions

What zones can Mountain Wood Fern grow in?

Mountain Wood Fern is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Mountain Wood Fern deer resistant?

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

When does Mountain Wood Fern bloom?

Mountain 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 Mountain Wood Fern need full sun?

Mountain Wood Fern does best in part shade.