Alpine Wood Fern

The Alpine Wood Fern, Dryopteris expansa, is a robust, semi-evergreen to deciduous fern, well-suited to the cooler, more shaded conditions found in many UK gardens. It forms an attractive shuttlecock-like rosette of broad, triangular, dark green fronds that are finely dissected, giving them a delicate, feathery appearance. This fern typically reaches 60-90cm in height and spread, providing significant texture and presence. It is quite adaptable, thriving in partial to full shade and preferring consistently moist, well-drained, humus-rich, acidic to neutral soil. Its ability to tolerate cooler temperatures makes it ideal for woodland gardens, shaded borders, or naturalising in damp, sheltered areas. The Alpine Wood Fern offers year-round attractive foliage in milder climates or a delightful spring re-emergence in colder areas.

Sun: Partial shade to full shade.

Soil: Moist, well-drained, humus-rich, acidic to neutral.

Hardiness: H6 — down to −20°C.