marginal wood fern
Dryopteris marginalis
USDA zones3 to 8
SunHandles partial sun to full shade
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size18 to 24 inches tall18 to 24 inches wide
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Bloom color
- Non-flowering
- Foliage color
- Dark green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay
- Soil pH
- Acidic (pH<6.8)
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Marginal wood fern (Dryopteris marginalis) is a fern for borders, shade gardens, woodland plantings, and winter interest. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes part sun to full shade and average to moist, sandy, loamy, or clay soil. The dark, leathery fronds stay green through winter and show up well against snow. Deer and rabbits usually look elsewhere for a meal. Give it a cover of oak leaves in winter.
Pairs well with Wintergreen, Striped maple, and Balsam fir.
Native range
North America.