Cristata wood fern
Dryopteris 'Cristata'
RHS AGM 1997
USDA zones2 to 7
SunHandles partial sun or full shade
WaterNeeds moderate soil
Size2 to 3 feet tall2 to 3 feet wide
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Foliage color
- Brown/copper, green
- Soil types
- Loam, clay
Garden uses
Notes
'Cristata' wood fern (Dryopteris 'Cristata') is a fern for shade gardens, woodland settings, and accents. It is hardy to USDA zone 2, or down to -50°F (-46°C). This plant likes part sun to full shade, average moisture, and loamy or clay soil. It grows 24 to 36 inches tall and wide at a moderate pace. New fronds show brown and copper tones before they turn green. Deer and rabbits tend to pass it by.
Pairs well with American maidenhair fern, Bordeaux lily of the valley, and Spring Beauty Siberian squill.