Dryopteris wallichiana
alpine wood fern
This fern is deciduous so all its fronds will die back in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again each spring.
- Position: Partial shade
- Soil:Moderately fertile, moist but well drained soil
- Rate of growth: Average
- Hardiness: Fully hardy
A tough, hardy fern that is native to the Himalayas. In spring, Wallich's wood fern produces bright green, shuttlecock-like fronds on upright, hairy stems, up to 90cm high - and makes a dramatic statement in a woodland garden or under deciduous trees. Once established, it will even grow in dry shade. When the leaves die back, the space can be filled with early-flowering snowdrops.
Incorporate lots of well rotted leaf mould, composted pine needles of garden compost into the planting hole. Cut back dead fronds in winter