Contents
Description
Dryopteris Aemula, commonly known as the southern wood fern, is a fern species that belongs to the Dryopteridaceae family. It is native to southeastern United States and is often found in moist forests, rocky slopes, and stream banks. This fern has a clumping growth habit and can grow up to 3 feet in height and 2 feet in width. Its fronds are triangular in shape and have a leathery texture. It is an excellent choice for shade gardens and woodland landscapes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Dryopteridaceae |
| Genus | Dryopteris |
Appearance
Dryopteris Aemula has a clumping growth habit and can grow up to 3 feet in height and 2 feet in width. Its fronds are triangular in shape and have a leathery texture. The fronds emerge upright and then arch over as they mature. The fronds are a bright green color and have a lacy appearance. It can be easily identified by its sori, which are small brown spots on the underside of the fronds. The sori contain spores that are responsible for reproduction.
Care Guide
Dryopteris Aemula requires consistently moist soil to thrive. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It should be watered regularly to maintain moist soil conditions. Fertilization is not necessary, but if desired, it should be done in the spring. This fern prefers partial to full shade and is hardy in USDA zones 6-9. It is important to protect it from hot afternoon sun, as it can scorch the fronds.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dryopteris Aemula is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil. It can also be affected by scale insects, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Dryopteris Aemula is native to southeastern United States and is often found in moist forests, rocky slopes, and stream banks. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and partial to full shade. It is a great choice for shade gardens and woodland landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dryopteris Aemula a good choice for a shade garden?
A: Yes, Dryopteris Aemula is an excellent choice for a shade garden.
Q: How often should you water Dryopteris Aemula?
A: Dryopteris Aemula should be watered regularly to maintain consistently moist soil conditions.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Dryopteris Aemula?
A: Dryopteris Aemula is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Q: How do you treat scale insects on Dryopteris Aemula?
A: Scale insects can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Related Plants
- Dryopteris filix-mas
- Dryopteris marginalis
- Dryopteris erythrosora
- Dryopteris carthusiana
References
- “Dryopteris aemula.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a667. Accessed 13 Sept. 2021.
- “Dryopteris aemula.” NC State Extension, 19 Nov. 2018, https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/dryopteris-aemula. Accessed 13 Sept. 2021.
