Species

Dryopteris dilatataBroad Buckler Fern

3 other cultivars

fernN. America Native

Giant Wood Fern

Dryopteris dilatata 'Lepidota Cristata'

The Story

Plant Bio

Dryopteris dilatata 'Lepidota Cristata' is a robust fern with lush, arching fronds that display a distinctive crinkled and crested appearance, offering an attractive, textured foliage presence in shaded garden areas.

This cultivar is notable for its uniquely frilled and crested leaf edges, adding ornamental interest and a dramatic, intricate silhouette to woodland and shaded border plantings.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds lush, evergreen foliage to shaded gardens, providing texture and visual interest year-round.

Helps maintain soil moisture and prevents erosion in shaded, moist areas.

Provides habitat and cover for small garden wildlife, supporting local biodiversity.

SpeciesDryopteris dilatataBroad Buckler Fern

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

24"

Width

30"

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Consistently moist

Humidity

Prefers high humidity

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

Europe, Asia, and North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a shaded area with moist, well-drained soil.
Tuck spores or divisions into the soil in early spring.
Mist regularly to keep soil moist during growing season.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Transplant if necessary in early spring for best results.
Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer annually.

Pro Tip

Ensure consistent moisture and shade for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to retain soil moisture
Prune dead fronds in early spring

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
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shady woodland gardenMoist borderFoliage accent in shaded beds

Companion Plants

Hosta Astilbe Heuchera Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Giant Wood Fern questions

What zones can Giant Wood Fern grow in?

Giant Wood 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 Giant Wood Fern deer resistant?

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

Does Giant Wood Fern need full sun?

Giant Wood Fern does best in part shade.