Dryopteris varia, commonly known as Varied Shield Fern, is a semi-evergreen fern native to a variety of habitats including forest margins, open woodlands, and rocky slopes in East Asia and Southeast Asia, specifically in China, Japan, Korea, Myanmar, the Philippines, Taiwan, Vietnam, Sulawesi, and the Ryukyu Islands. It typically grows to a height of 24 inches (60 centimeters) with a similar spread. The fern has a lush, upright, and spreading habit with broadly lance-shaped, pinnate fronds that are green throughout the growing season.

Varied Shield Fern is appreciated for its adaptability to a range of light conditions, from full shade to partial sun, and its preference for moist, well-drained soils with rich organic matter. It is often used in shaded garden areas, woodland plantings, and as a ground cover due to its dense foliage. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it benefits from regular watering during dry periods and the removal of old fronds to maintain a tidy appearance. This fern is not known to be prone to serious diseases or pests, making it a reliable choice for gardeners. It does not have aggressive roots, but it can spread gradually by rhizomes to form a lush understory.CC BY-SA 4.0