Male Fern
Dryopteris filix-mas
Also listed as Aspidium filix-mas, Aspidium nemorale
Also known as Common Male Fern, Male Woodfern, Male Shield Fern
Climate Match for your location
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A classic woodland fern with upright, feathery fronds that unfurl in spring and persist through summer. It thrives in shaded, moist locations and adds elegant texture to shade gardens.
Why grow it
Male fern is a reliable choice for deep shade where many other ferns struggle, and its sturdy, upright fronds maintain their form better than softer species through wind and foot traffic. It offers a more structured silhouette than spreading ferns like lady fern, making it useful for formal shade plantings. The fronds persist well into winter in temperate zones, providing longer seasonal interest than deciduous alternatives.
Watch out for
In warmer climates or during dry summers, consistent soil moisture becomes critical, as the plant can suffer from desiccation even in partial shade. Crowded conditions or poor air circulation can promote fungal issues on the fronds, so spacing and site selection matter for long-term vigor.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Dryopteridaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Europe and Western Asia
Native to: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Maine, Michigan, Montana, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A classic woodland fern with upright, feathery fronds that unfurl in spring and persist through summer. It thrives in shaded, moist locations and adds elegant texture to shade gardens.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Male Fern grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Male fern is a reliable choice for deep shade where many other ferns struggle, and its sturdy, upright fronds maintain their form better than softer species through wind and foot traffic. It offers a more structured silhouette than spreading ferns like lady fern, making it useful for formal shade plantings. The fronds persist well into winter in temperate zones, providing longer seasonal interest than deciduous alternatives.
Watch out for
In warmer climates or during dry summers, consistent soil moisture becomes critical, as the plant can suffer from desiccation even in partial shade. Crowded conditions or poor air circulation can promote fungal issues on the fronds, so spacing and site selection matter for long-term vigor.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Dryopteridaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Europe and Western Asia
Native to: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Maine, Michigan, Montana, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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