Dryopteris cycadina
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Dryopteris cycadina

Shaggy wood fern · Blackwood fern

Tier 1 Difficulty: hard Water: high Light: full_shade
Temperature
5–35 °C
Soil pH
6–7
Hardiness
Zone 5–9
Click count
27
Observations
35

Description

Source: leafsnap

Dryopteris cycadina, the shaggy shield fern or black wood fern, is a species of deciduous or semi-evergreen fern in the family Dryopteridaceae, native to northern India, China, Taiwan and Japan. It grows to 60 cm (24 in) tall by 45 cm (18 in) wide, and produces pale green fronds maturing to dark green, on erect rhizomes.It has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

💡 Woodfern leaves resemble a squirrel's tail, with each leaf neatly arranged along the stem. The leaves gradually shorten as they extend from the base to the tip. This orderly arrangement of woodfern leaves can be quite soothing for those with obsessive-compulsive tendencies.

Care Guide

💧 Water

The shaggy wood fern thrives in humid environments and requires consistent moisture to grow well. To maintain its lush foliage, it should be watered twice a week. As an evergreen plant, the shaggy wood fern retains its vibrant green color throughout the year, provided it receives adequate hydration.

☀️ Light Full shade

Shaggy wood fern is native to habitats such as forest understories and rocky areas, where it provides natural shade. It prefers Full Shade but can tolerate Partial Sun.

Ideal: Full shade
FAQ
What are the sun requirements for a Shaggy wood fern?

The Shaggy wood fern, known botanically as Dryopteris cycadina, has specific sunlight requirements to thrive. It necessitates conditions of full shade, which is defined as receiving less than 3 hours of sunlight daily. Alternatively, it can also grow well in partial sun, where it would receive about 3-6 hours of sunlight. It's crucial to observe the movement of sunlight through your garden to identify areas that offer an optimal mix of light and shade, ensuring the Shaggy wood fern's well-being. This thoughtful placement aligns with the plant's needs, contributing to its health and growth.

🌡️ Temperature 5–35°C

Shaggy wood fern does best in forest thickets. It is very sensitive to temperature and humidity; high heat, dry conditions, and strong sunlight can all stress Shaggy wood fern. In summer it needs adequate shading and a humid environment. Generally it does not require special care in winter, but a prolonged winter drought can still be fatal.

Ideal temperature: 5–35°C
FAQ
What is the Shaggy wood fern?

The Shaggy wood fern, scientifically known as Dryopteris cycadina, is a species of fern. Unfortunately, the provided information does not include details about its characteristics, habitat, or care instructions. More research might be necessary to fully understand this plant.

💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 6-7
Soil pH: 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer
🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning

Pruning shaggy wood fern in early spring helps improve growth and air circulation. Make sure to remove any damaged fronds at the base, being careful not to cut into the crown. This maintenance supports size control, enhances appearance, and encourages the development of new fronds. Be mindful of the fern's growth cycle to avoid disturbing new shoots.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Fern
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Dryopteris
Family
Dryopteridaceae
Hardiness Zone
5-9
Mature Height
46 cm to 91 cm
Mature Spread
61 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Native Area
South Korea, Japan, China

Tags (4)

Common Names (2)

en Shaggy wood fern
en Blackwood fern