Attractive foliage with year round interest which generally prefer shaded, damp areas.

Hardy ferns are particularly  effective in woodland or streamside settings.

Ferns belong to a group of plants that lack flowers  and reproduce by spores rather than seeds. This group is called Pteridophytes. The leaf like structure is known as fronds.

Ornamental features.

Ferns are highly valued for the symmetric elegance of their fronds  and the textural contrasts of there green or blue lush foliage . Some species display colours of red, yellow or grey.


If carefully chosen, ferns provide interest all year.


Planting Ferns for contrasts.


Successful plantings of ferns often contrast textures, habits, and colours of foliage.


The glossy , strap shaped  leaves of scolopendrium planted so that the would arch over the feathery fronds of Polypodium vulgare would be an ideal combination.


Dryopteris

Buckler Fern

DRYOPTERIDACEAE


Genus of about 200 species of terrestrial ferns found mainly in temperate regions of the N. hemisphere, where they grow in woodland, by streams or lakes, and among mountain rocks.


Most are deciduous, but in mild winters some stay green in sheltered sites.


Pinnate to 4-pinnate , sometimes pinnatisect fronds form “shuttlecocks” in most cultivated species. Spores are produced in kidney-shaped sori. The foliage looks effective with most herbaceous plants and shrubs: In frost prone areas, grow tender species in a cool greenhouse.



HARDINESS.            Mostly fully hardy; Some species are frost hardy or frost tender.


CULTIVATION.        Grow in moist, humus rich soil in partial shade and a sheltered site. D. affinis and its cultivars will tolerate more sun and wind than other species. Once established, ferns usually require little maintenance.


                                    When planting, include a slow release fertilizer in the mixture; alternatively apply a half strength tomato type liquid fertilizer every 3-4 weeks during growth.     


PROPAGATION.      Sow spores at 15`C (59`F) as soon as ripe.

                                    Divide mature plants in Spring or Autumn.


PESTS AND
DISEASES                 Trouble free, buth moth lavae may feed on spores.



DRYOPTERIS affinis “Cristata”

Syn .”Cristata The King “ has arching fronds, 10-15cm (4-6”) across, with crested tips andpinnae and is the most handsome of numerous  selected cultivars.

More Information at Tubs and Shrubs Website