Native to western and central Europe, the 'broad buckler fern' is a robust semi-evergreen perennial with a rosette of wide-spreading, finely cut fronds with strongly toothed segments. These deep-green fronds are triangular when young, becoming lance-like when mature, with midribs and stalks covered in dark brown scales.
How to care for Dryopteris dilatata:
Incorporate lots of well-rotted leaf mould, composted pine needles or garden compost into the planting hole. Cut back decayed fronds in winter to allow new growth to emerge.
Eventual height:
1.5m
Eventual spread:
1m
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost