Male fern Dryopteris filix-mas 5-10 pot P9

Size: Potmaat leidend

5-10cm

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Pot 9x9 cm (P9)

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Available from: 03/02/2025

Number of m2

Nr. of plants

3.55

3.55 per piece

incl. VAT, excl. shipping costs (calculated in shopping cart)

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Nr. of plants

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Benefits according to our specialist

Plantable year-round
Low maintenance
Decorative foliage

Plant features
Description
Planting and care
Packaging and shipping

Genus
Dryopteris (view all varieties)

Root type
Pot

Pot size
9x9 cm (P9)

Possibilities
Border, Group planting, Underplanting, Solitary

Soil type
All soil types, well-drained

Positioning
Semi-shade, Shade

Winter hardiness
-23,3°C / -20,6°C, USDA zone 6a

Fruit-bearing plants
No

Water needs
Average water

Number of plants per m²
9

Evergreen plants
No

Leaf colour
Green

Fragrant plants
No

Growth habit
Clump-forming growth habit

Height at time of delivery excluding pot/clod
5-10

Mature height (cm)
120

Art. no.
1000375

Description

Dryopteris filix-mas | Male fern

The Dryopteris filix-mas, commonly known as the male fern or male woodfern, is a robust, deciduous fern that thrives in the cooler climates of the northern temperate zones. It is a versatile species well-suited for a variety of garden uses, including border planting, group planting, as an underplanting to larger trees, or as a striking solitary feature.

Key features of Dryopteris filix-mas

The Dryopteris genus is renowned for its handsome foliage and the male woodfern is no exception with its rich green leaves that provide lush texture to garden spaces. Here are some key features of the Dryopteris filix-mas:

It features a clump-forming growth habit that can reach up to 1.2 meters in height, unfurling elegant fronds that remain vibrant from spring through autumn.
This species is adaptable to a variety of soil types, provided they are well-drained.
It is ideally situated in partial shade to full shade, where the cool conditions allow it to thrive.
The male fern is not evergreen, shedding its foliage in winter, but its greenery is a prominent feature throughout the other seasons.

Tips for cultivating Dryopteris filix-mas

For gardeners looking to cultivate the male fern, consider the following tips to ensure a thriving plant:

Ensure that the soil remains moist but well-drained to satisfy the male fern's average water needs without causing root rot.
Propagation of the male fern can be done effectively through division, encouraging new growth and maintaining plant health. This process is best carried out in the spring or autumn.
Although drought-resistant varieties have their merits, the Dryopteris filix-mas requires consistent moisture to flourish, making regular watering a key aspect of its care regimen.

Ideal placement of a Dryopteris filix-mas

Dryopteris filix-mas thrives in the dappled light of partial shade to the deeper calm of full shade, emulating its natural habitat in the northern temperate zones. This fern is versatile, tolerating a range of soil types as long as they are well-drained. It is well-suited to underplanting beneath taller species or as an elegant addition to a shaded border. Optimal growth is observed when it is provided with consistent moisture, mirroring the environment of a forest floor. Its preference for cooler, sheltered locations makes it an excellent choice for adding lush greenery to shaded garden areas.

How do I plant a Dryopteris filix-mas?

When planting Dryopteris filix-mas, select a location that offers partial shade to full shade to accommodate its natural preference for lower light conditions, reminiscent of its origins in the northern temperate zones. This species thrives in a wide range of well-drained soils and is versatile enough for use in borders, group plantings, or as a solitary feature. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged to meet its average water needs. The best time for planting this pot-grown fern is during the cooler months of spring or autumn to allow the root system to establish before the growing season.

Pruning a Dryopteris filix-mas

Dryopteris filix-mas requires minimal pruning, which contributes to its ease of care. To tidy up the appearance, simply remove any dead or damaged fronds at the base in early spring before new growth begins. This practice allows for better air circulation and encourages a healthy, vigorous flush of new fronds. Avoid cutting back the fern during the growing season, as this can hamper its natural growth pattern and reduce its lush appearance.

Watering a Dryopteris filix-mas

Dryopteris filix-mas thrives in consistently moist soil conditions, particularly in its preferred habitats of partial to full shade. While the species has an average water need, it is not drought-resistant, necessitating regular watering to maintain soil moisture, especially during drier spells. Overhead watering is beneficial, mimicking the natural environment of dappled forest light and rainfall. During the growing season, ensure that the soil does not dry out completely, but also take care to avoid waterlogging, which could harm the plant's root system. Proper hydration is key to the lush, green fronds that characterize this fern throughout its active months.

Fertilising a Dryopteris filix-mas

To sustain the vigorous growth and lush greenery of Dryopteris filix-mas, a balanced approach to fertilization is essential. Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season, typically in early spring. This will provide a steady supply of nutrients as the fronds unfurl and gain strength. A second application can be made during midsummer to support continued growth and maintain the plant's vitality.

It's important to ensure that the fertilizer is evenly distributed around the base of the plant, avoiding direct contact with the fronds to prevent burn. Watering the plant after fertilizing helps to distribute the nutrients into the soil, allowing the roots to absorb them more effectively. This two-pronged fertilization strategy will contribute to a robust and healthy Dryopteris filix-mas throughout its growing season.

The characteristics of a Dryopteris filix-mas

Dryopteris filix-mas thrives in the dappled shade of woodland settings, revealing its adaptability to lower light conditions, a trait often overlooked in garden planning. As a deciduous fern, it provides a lush, green backdrop during the growing season and adds textural contrast with its robust, arching fronds. This species is also known for being low maintenance, requiring minimal care once established, and is an excellent choice for adding year-round interest to shaded areas of the garden.

Separating/dividing a Dryopteris filix-mas

The vigorous growth of Dryopteris filix-mas can be sustained through periodic division, which not only promotes new growth but also maintains plant health. Division should be carried out in spring or autumn, a suitable time for the roots to establish themselves. Carefully lift the plant from the soil, ensuring minimal disturbance to the root ball. Once lifted, split the clump into several sections, each with a fair amount of roots and fronds. Replant these divisions promptly, spacing them adequately to afford room for expansion. This process allows gardeners to manage the size and shape of their specimens, ensuring robust foliage and plant vitality.

What will be the height of Dryopteris filix-mas?

Dryopteris filix-mas typically grows to a height ranging from 1 to 1.5 meters.

What will be the width of Dryopteris filix-mas?

Dryopteris filix-mas will achieve a final spread ranging from 50 centimeters to 1 meter.

Which soil type is most suitable for the Dryopteris filix-mas?

Dryopteris filix-mas is adaptable to various soil types, but it thrives best in well-drained soil. Ensuring proper drainage is essential for the healthy growth and development of this plant.

What is the ideal positioning for the Dryopteris filix-mas?

Dryopteris filix-mas thrives best in a location with partial shade or shade. It is most suited to an environment where direct sunlight is limited, such as under the shelter of taller plants or trees, or in an area with reduced light exposure.

Is the Dryopteris filix-mas hardy?

Yes, Dryopteris filix-mas is considered winter hardy. This plant can tolerate temperatures as low as -23.3°C to -20.1°C, falling within the USDA's zone 6a for winter hardiness. As a result, Dryopteris filix-mas is well-suited to withstand the colder winter temperatures and can thrive in regions within this hardiness zone.

Is the Dryopteris filix-mas evergreen?

Dryopteris filix-mas is not an evergreen plant. It goes through a seasonal cycle of losing its leaves during a certain period and then growing new foliage.

What is the growth strength of the Dryopteris filix-mas?

Dryopteris filix-mas typically takes 5 to 10 years to reach its ultimate height. This indicates a moderate growth rate over a relatively extended period of time, allowing for gradual and steady development.

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