Species

Dryopteris wallichianaWallich's Fern

1 other cultivar

‘Jurassic Gold’Jurassic Gold Wood Fern

fern

Wallich's Wood Fern

Dryopteris wallichiana 'Tucumanji'

The Story

Plant Bio

A robust, deciduous or semi-evergreen fern forming a shuttlecock-like clump of lance-shaped, bipinnate fronds. New fronds are covered in blackish-brown scales.

The new fiddleheads are particularly ornamental, unfurling in spring with a striking contrast between the golden-green new growth and the dark, scaly stems (rachis).

Uses & Benefits:

Adds lush, green texture to shaded areas, creating a tranquil garden atmosphere.

Helps control soil erosion in shady, moist spots.

Provides habitat and food for native insects and birds.

SpeciesDryopteris wallichianaWallich's Fern

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

24 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moist

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Himalayas and other parts of Asia

Toxicity

Generally considered non-toxic, but ingestion should be avoided.

Bloom period

Late summer – Late fall

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a shaded location with moist, well-drained soil.
Tuck fern spores or divisions into soil in early spring.
Mist regularly to keep soil moist during active growth.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Transplant in early spring or fall for best results.
Water deeply once a week during dry spells.

Pro Tip

Keep soil consistently moist and provide shade for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist.
Mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years to promote healthy growth.

Don't

Avoid overly dry or sunny locations ❌
Don't let soil dry out completely ❌
Refrain from fertilizing in late fall ❌

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

Shaded woodland gardenFoliage-contrast borderMoisture-loving plant grouping

Companion Plants

Hosta Astilbe TrilliumJapanese painted fern Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Wallich's Wood Fern questions

What zones can Wallich's Wood Fern grow in?

Wallich's Wood 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 Wallich's Wood Fern deer resistant?

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

When does Wallich's Wood Fern bloom?

Wallich's Wood Fern typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Wallich's Wood Fern need full sun?

Wallich's Wood Fern does best in part shade.