Dryopteris austriaca (dilatata)
broad buckler-fern
Dryoperis dilatata is a semi-evergreen fern with a fairly upright habit, growing to 90 – 100 cm in height. An ideal plant to soften shaded corners or underplant larger trees.
The wide-spreading, finely-cut, triangular fronds rise upward and outward from its central crown. It prefers moist, shady areas, and can tolerate partial sun if the soil is kept moist.
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Plant Biography
Dryopteris dilatata (formerly known as D.austriaca) is a species native to Europe, mainly West Europe, however it can be found in places all the way to the Caspian Sea. It has a deciduous or semi-evergreen habit. In sheltered places with milder climate can stay evergreen throughout the year.
It grows in the understory of temperate forests, in rich moist soils. Similar to other Dryopteris family members, but with a broader frond in a triangle format. The Latin epithet for it “dilatata”, in fact, means ‘broad’ or ‘spread out’.
Several varieties are in commercial cultivation like D.dilatata “Crispa Whiteside” and “Lepidota Cristata”.
Care & Size Guidance
Plant the Dryopteris dilatata in shaded and sheltered spots in early spring. Use a compost rich mix to plant when in a pot, or mix compost with the soil when planting in the ground.
Apply a thick layer of mulch to keep the moisture in the ground. Though it may cope for short periods of time with the lack of water, avoid this in spring when the new growth is pushing.
In harsher winters it may lose all its fronds but will come back in spring more vigorous than ever.
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