buckler fern
Dryopteris complexa
USDA zones5 to 9
SunHandles partial shade to full shade
WaterNeeds moderate soil
Size3 to 4 feet tall3 to 4 feet wide
- Bloom color
- Non-flowering
Notes
Buckler fern (Dryopteris complexa) is a fern for shade gardens, woodland borders, and mass plantings. It is hardy to USDA zone 5, or down to -20°F (-29°C). This plant likes part to full shade and average moisture. It grows 36 to 48 inches tall and wide, so give it room to spread. It is also drought tolerant once established. It is not a favorite of rabbits, though hungry rabbits will eat almost anything.
Pairs well with Lady in Red lady fern, Endless Summer The Original bigleaf hydrangea, Ramsons, and Creeping Oregon grape.
Native range
Europe to Turkey.