Species

Dryopteris filix-masMale Fern

4 other cultivars

fern

Parsley Male Fern

Dryopteris filix-mas 'Parsley'

The Story

Plant Bio

Dryopteris filix-mas, commonly known as Male Fern, is a perennial fern with arching, pinnate fronds that are lush green and provide a dense, woodland-like foliage. It thrives in shaded, moist environments.

The 'Parsley' cultivar is distinguished by its finely divided, parsley-like fronds that add a delicate, ornamental texture to shaded garden areas, making it a popular choice for ground cover and shade gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Lush green foliage adds texture and depth to shaded gardens.

Provides ground cover in shady, moist areas, preventing erosion.

Supports local wildlife by offering habitat and shelter.

SpeciesDryopteris filix-masMale Fern

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

24 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Consistently moist soil

Humidity

Prefers high humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America, Europe, Asia

Toxicity

Rhizome is toxic if ingested.

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-fall

In flower about 8 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck spores into moist, well-drained soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Ensure soil remains consistently moist during growing season.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Transplant in early spring or fall for optimal growth.
Divide mature plants every 3–4 years to rejuvenate.

Pro Tip

Keep soil moist and provide shade for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to retain soil moisture
Divide every 3–4 years

Don't

Avoid drought stress ❌
Don’t expose to direct, harsh sunlight
Don’t let soil dry out completely

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

Shade garden borderMoist woodland edgeGreen foliage accent

Companion Plants

Hosta Astilbe TrilliumSolomon's Seal Japanese Forest Grass

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Parsley Male Fern questions

What zones can Parsley Male Fern grow in?

Parsley Male Fern 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 Parsley Male Fern deer resistant?

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

When does Parsley Male Fern bloom?

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

Does Parsley Male Fern need full sun?

Parsley Male Fern does best in part shade.