Broad Buckler Fern Dryopteris dilatata

Species Information
Frond length up to 1m. The fronds of the Broad Buckler Fern are deep green, are ovate-triangular in shape, and are 3-times pinnately divided. The stalks have dark-centred scales. The fronds are broader and longer than the Narrow Buckler Fern (Dryopteris carthusiana).

Spore ripening time July to September. Found in hedgerows, scrub, damp woodland, heathland, shady rock ledges and amongst rocks. A native species which is common and widespread throughout Britain.

Classification

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Pteridophyta (Ferns, Horsetails, Quillworts & Clubmosses)
Polypodiopsida (Ferns)
Polypodiales (Polypod Ferns)
Dryopteridaceae (Wood Ferns)
Dryopteris
Dryopteris dilatata (Hoffm.) A. Gray

Photographs

Broad Buckler Fern (Dryopteris austriaca)
May 2012. Local wood, South Staffordshire
Broad Buckler Fern (Dryopteris austriaca)
May 2012. Local wood, South Staffordshire
Broad Buckler Fern (Dryopteris austriaca)
May 2012. Local wood, South Staffordshire

All photographs copyright © Peter Hillman
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