Spinulose Wood Fern

(Dryopteris carthusiana)

Spinulose Wood Fern (Dryopteris carthusiana)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Dryopteris carthusiana, commonly known as Spinulose Wood Fern or Intermediate Wood Fern, is a fern that exhibits characteristics of being deciduous in colder climates and semi-evergreen in milder regions. It is native to a variety of habitats including moist, shady forests, and swampy or boggy areas in Europe, Central Asia, and North America, specifically in Canada and the Northeastern USA. This fern typically grows to a height and width of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters), forming a lush, clumping mound of finely divided fronds. The fronds are noted for their delicate appearance, with numerous small leaflets that have finely toothed margins, giving the plant a textured look.

The Spinulose Wood Fern is valued for its adaptability to a range of shade conditions and its ability to thrive in moist, well-drained soils, making it a popular choice for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and naturalized areas. It provides a soft texture and greenery throughout the growing season and into winter in milder climates. While it prefers part shade to full shade, it is relatively easy to maintain, requiring consistent moisture without being waterlogged. This fern is not typically troubled by serious pest or disease problems, but it can suffer from root rot if drainage is poor. It is also deer-resistant, which is a notable benefit for gardeners dealing with wildlife pressure.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Fern
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen, Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Border Plant, Deer Resistant, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Moist, shady forests, and swampy or boggy areas in Europe, Central Asia, Canada, and the Northeastern USA

Other Names

Common Names: Narrow Buckler-Fern , Narrow Spinulose Shield Fern , Spinulose Shield Fern , Toothed Wood Fern , Dorniger Wurmfarn , Gewöhnlicher Dornfarn , Dryoptéris Des Chartreux , Dryoptère De Cartheuser , Dryoptère Spinuleuse , Dryoptéride Spinuleuse

Scientific Names: Dryopteris carthusiana , Dryopteris spinulosa , Polystichum spinulosum , Aspidium spinulosum , Dryopteris austriaca var. spinulosa , Dryopteris austriaca subsp. spinulosa , Thelypteris spinulosa , Nephrodium spinulosum , Dryopteris spinulosa var. spinulosa , Polystichum angustatum

GBIF Accepted Name: Dryopteris carthusiana (Vill.) H.P.Fuchs