Dryopteris dilatata 'Grandiceps'
fern

Broad Buckler Fern 'Grandiceps'

Dryopteris dilatata 'Grandiceps'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

24 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe, Western Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Dryopteris dilatata, the Broad Buckler Fern, is a robust, semi-evergreen fern forming a shuttlecock of broad, arching, triangular fronds. The 'Grandiceps' cultivar is distinguished by the heavily crested tips (pinnae) of its fronds, creating a dense, tasseled appearance.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesLush, green foliage adds texture and elegance to shaded gardens.
Practical UsesProvides year-round ground cover in low-light areas.
Ecological BenefitsSupports forest floor ecosystems and native biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a shady or partially shaded location.
  2. Prepare moist, well-drained loamy soil with organic matter.
  3. Tuck fern spores or transplant young plants into soil.
  4. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  5. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Mist leaves during dry periods for added humidity.

Pro Tip

Ensure consistent moisture and protection from harsh sun for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
  • Mulch to retain soil moisture
  • Provide partial shade

Don't

  • Avoid direct, harsh sunlight ❌
  • Do not let soil dry out completely
  • Avoid heavy, poorly drained soils

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland gardenEvergreen borderMoist shady courtyard

Companion Plants

Hostas Heuchera Astilbe Japanese forest grass Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Broad Buckler Fern 'Grandiceps' questions

What zones can Broad Buckler Fern 'Grandiceps' grow in?

Broad Buckler Fern 'Grandiceps' 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 Broad Buckler Fern 'Grandiceps' deer resistant?

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

When does Broad Buckler Fern 'Grandiceps' bloom?

Broad Buckler Fern 'Grandiceps' 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 'Grandiceps' need full sun?

Broad Buckler Fern 'Grandiceps' does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Broad Buckler Fern 'Grandiceps' 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.

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