Oak Fern

The Oak Fern, Gymnocarpium dryopteris, is a charming and delicate deciduous fern, often found in cool, moist, shaded woodlands in the UK. It is distinctive for its small, triangular, light green fronds that are divided into three equal-sized, finely-cut leaflets, giving it a very open and airy appearance. These fronds are borne on slender, wiry, dark stems and typically grow to a modest height of 15-30cm, spreading gently by slender rhizomes to form attractive colonies. It thrives in cool, consistently moist, well-drained, acidic to neutral soil and partial to full shade. The Oak Fern is an excellent choice for naturalising under trees and shrubs, in rock gardens, or along shaded paths, where its subtle beauty and delicate texture can be appreciated. It is a wonderfully understated addition to a woodland garden.

Sun: Partial shade to full shade.

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

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.