perennial

Log Fern

Dryopteris x celsa 'Shreveport'

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Consistent moisture

Humidity

High humidity preferred

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Dryopteris x celsa, the Log Fern, is a robust, semi-evergreen fern with arching, dark green, pinnate-pinnatifid fronds that form an elegant, vase-shaped clump. This naturally occurring hybrid fern is noted for its adaptability to moist, shady locations and its handsome, leathery foliage. It is larger and more vigorous than one of its parents, D. goldiana.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, evergreen foliage that adds texture to shaded garden areas.

Helps retain soil moisture and prevent erosion in shady spots.

Supports local wildlife by offering cover and humidity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Choose a shaded spot with moist, well-draining soil.
Tuck fern spores or transplant young plants into prepared soil.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring for rejuvenation.

Pro Tip

Ensure consistent moisture and shade for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate temperature
Divide every few years to maintain vigor

Don't

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

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shady woodland garden borderEvergreen groundcoverMoist woodland edge

Companion Plants

Hosta Astilbe Trillium Japanese painted fern Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Log Fern questions

What zones can Log Fern grow in?

Log Fern is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Log Fern deer resistant?

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

When does Log Fern bloom?

Log Fern typically blooms in early spring through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Log Fern need full sun?

Log Fern does best in part shade.