Species

Dryopteris bissetianaBisset's Wood Fern

2 other cultivars

fern

Jinfoshan Dwarf Fern

Dryopteris bissetiana 'Jinfoshan Dwarf'

Same species

Species

Dryopteris bissetianaBisset's Wood Fern

2 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

12 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moist

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Dryopteris bissetiana, known as Jinfoshan Dwarf, is a compact fern with delicate, finely divided fronds and a lush, evergreen habit, typically forming dense clumps in shaded woodland environments. This cultivar is distinguished by its particularly small, dwarf stature, making it ideal for rock gardens and container planting, while maintaining its vibrant, ferny foliage year-round.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, evergreen foliage that thrives in shaded garden areas, adding texture and depth.

Drought tolerant once established, suitable for low-maintenance shaded landscapes.

Supports local shade-loving insects and provides cover for small wildlife.

Planting

How to Grow

Select a shaded location with moist, well-drained soil.
Tuck spores or divisions into soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Keep soil consistently moist for optimal growth.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Transplant mature divisions in early spring or fall.

Pro Tip

Ensure consistent moisture and shade for healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Maintain consistent moisture 🌱
Mulch to retain soil moisture
Dividing every few years keeps plant vigorous

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch fronds ❌
Do not let soil dry out completely
Over-fertilizing can cause legginess ❌

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 borderEvergreen privacy screen

Companion Plants

Hosta Astilbe Heuchera Foamflower Japanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Jinfoshan Dwarf Fern questions

What zones can Jinfoshan Dwarf Fern grow in?

Jinfoshan Dwarf Fern is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Jinfoshan Dwarf Fern deer resistant?

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

When does Jinfoshan Dwarf Fern bloom?

Jinfoshan Dwarf 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 Jinfoshan Dwarf Fern need full sun?

Jinfoshan Dwarf Fern does best in part shade.