Southern Wood Fern
Dryopteris australis
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Fern
Height
42 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Consistently moist
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Southeastern United States
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
A large, robust, upright fern with leathery, dark green, semi-evergreen fronds. This fern is notable for its ability to thrive in both shade and partial sun and can handle wet conditions.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck spores or divisions into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Mist fronds frequently during dry spells for lush growth.
- Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize with a balanced organic fertilizer in spring and summer.
- Prune dead or damaged fronds in late winter or early spring.
Pro Tip
Ensure consistent moisture and shaded conditions for optimal fern health.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Keep soil consistently moist 🌱
- Provide indirect or dappled shade
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
- Fertilize lightly in spring and summer
Don't
- Avoid direct, harsh sunlight ❌
- Don’t let soil dry out completely
- Avoid over-fertilizing
- Do not expose to strong winds
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Southern Wood Fern questions
What zones can Southern Wood Fern grow in?
Southern 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 Southern Wood Fern deer resistant?
Yes — Southern Wood Fern is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
Does Southern Wood Fern need full sun?
Southern Wood Fern does best in part shade.
More Dryopteris to compare
Broad Buckler-fern
Dryopteris dilatata 'Jimmy Dyce'
Log Fern
Dryopteris x celsa 'Shreveport'
Autumn Fern
Dryopteris erythrosora
Shaggy Shield Fern
Dryopteris cycadina
Western Wood Fern The King Fern
Dryopteris affinis 'The King'
Goldie's Wood Fern
Dryopteris goldieana
Keep exploring
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