Dryopteris wallichiana (Alpine Wood Fern)

One of the most handsome of ferns available, award-winning Dryopteris wallichiana (Alpine Wood Fern) is a stately semi-evergreen fern forming a tuft of lance-shaped, arching fronds from an erect rhizome. Arising in shuttlecock-like clusters, the fronds are warm butter yellow when they unfurl in spring, in contrast to the blackish-brown scales on the stalk and midrib. Adding beauty and interest to the landscape, they mature to rich green later and often remain green through winter in frost-free areas. After several years, this statuesque fern will have 50-60 fronds. Easily grown, Alpine Wood Fern shows off well against a contrasting rocky background and makes a dramatic statement in a woodland garden or under deciduous trees.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society for its outstanding qualities
• Grows up to 3-5 ft. tall and wide (90-150 cm).
• Performs best in part shade or full shade in moist and well-drained soils. Tolerant of dry shade but water regularly in their first season and mulch well. Drought tolerant once established.
• This plant is a great choice for shady beds and borders, underplanting of roses and shrubs, cottage gardens, or woodland gardens.
• Virtually pest and disease free.
• Remove faded fronds regularly and divide plants when crowded.
• Propagate by sowing spores as soon as ripe or by division in spring
• Native to India and China.