Mexican male fern
Dryopteris pseudofilix-mas
USDA zones5 to 8
SunHandles partial shade to full shade
WaterNeeds moderate soil
Size2 to 4 feet tall2 to 3 feet wide
- Bloom color
- Non-flowering
Notes
Mexican male fern (Dryopteris pseudofilix-mas) is a fern for shade borders, woodland gardens, and foundation 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 24 to 48 inches tall and spreads 24 to 36 inches. It does not flower, so its fronds provide all the interest. Rabbits usually look elsewhere for a meal.
Pairs well with Ebony spleenwort, Zorro bigleaf hydrangea, and Tall bellflower.
Native range
Mexico.