fern

Alpine Wood Fern

Dryopteris scottii

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

30 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moist

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia, Hawaii, Mexico, Jamaica

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

A robust, semi-evergreen fern forming a shuttlecock-like clump of arching, lance-shaped, dark green fronds. New fronds are covered in golden-brown scales as they unfurl. This fern is notable for its vigorous growth in moist, shaded environments and its ability to tolerate a range of soil conditions, making it a versatile choice for woodland gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, textured foliage that enhances shaded garden areas.

Helps retain soil moisture and prevent erosion in shady spots.

Supports local wildlife by offering habitat and maintaining biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck spores or divisions into moist soil in spring.
Keep soil consistently moist and shaded during establishment.
Mist fronds regularly to maintain humidity.
Mulch around base to retain soil moisture.
Transplant in early spring or fall for best results.
Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch.

Pro Tip

Maintain consistently moist, shaded soil for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Prune dead or damaged fronds promptly
Divide clumps every few years to control size

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch fronds ❌
Don’t let soil dry out completely
Skip fertilizing during dormancy
Avoid heavy, clay soil without proper amendment

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland gardenMoist border with lush foliageGroundcover beneath trees

Companion Plants

Hosta Astilbe Ligularia Ferns Japanese Forest Grass

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Alpine Wood Fern questions

What zones can Alpine Wood Fern grow in?

Alpine Wood Fern is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Alpine Wood Fern deer resistant?

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

Does Alpine Wood Fern need full sun?

Alpine Wood Fern does best in part shade.