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Sichuan Wood Fern

Dryopteris xanthomelas 'Sichuan'

The Story

Plant Bio

Dryopteris xanthomelas, known as Sichuan Wood Fern, is a deciduous fern with arching, pinnate fronds that display a vibrant green color and delicate, lacy foliage, thriving in shaded, moist environments.

This cultivar is distinguished by its particularly bright green fronds and its resilience in woodland gardens, making it a striking and hardy choice for shaded areas.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds lush, green foliage to shaded garden areas, providing texture and year-round interest.

Helps retain soil moisture and prevent erosion on slopes.

Provides habitat for beneficial insects and small wildlife.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

24 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

China

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Early spring – Early summer

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck spores or division in early spring or fall
Water regularly to keep soil moist
Mulch around base to retain moisture
Provide partial to full shade for optimal growth
Fertilize with balanced fern fertilizer every 6 weeks
Divide every 2-3 years in spring to maintain vigor

Pro Tip

Keep soil consistently moist and provide shade for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to retain soil moisture
Divide every few years to prevent overcrowding

Don't

Allow soil to dry out completely ❌
Expose to direct, harsh sunlight ❌
Over-fertilize, which 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 borderMoisture-loving groundcoverEvergreen fern hedge

Companion Plants

Hostas Astilbes LigulariaJapanese Forest Grass Solomon's Seal

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Sichuan Wood Fern questions

What zones can Sichuan Wood Fern grow in?

Sichuan Wood Fern is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Sichuan Wood Fern deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Sichuan Wood Fern, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Sichuan Wood Fern bloom?

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

Does Sichuan Wood Fern need full sun?

Sichuan Wood Fern does best in part shade.