Contents
Description
Dryopteris Dilatata Crispa Whiteside, commonly known as the Broad Buckler Fern, is a deciduous fern that belongs to the Dryopteridaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found in damp, shady areas such as woodlands, hedgerows, and stream banks.This fern has an upright, vase-like shape and can reach a height of up to 3 feet. It has fronds (leaves) that are pinnate (feather-like) and can grow up to 2 feet long. The fronds have a unique crinkled appearance that adds interest and texture to any garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya || Kingdom | Plantae || Phylum | Tracheophyta || Class | Polypodiopsida || Order | Polypodiales || Family | Dryopteridaceae || Genus | Dryopteris || Species | Dilatata |
Appearance
The Broad Buckler Fern has a distinct appearance that sets it apart from other ferns. Its fronds are a bright green color and are deeply divided, giving them a feather-like appearance. The fronds are also crinkled, which adds texture and interest to the plant.As the fronds mature, they become more upright and form a vase-like shape. The fern also produces spores on the underside of the fronds, which can be seen as brown dots.
Care Guide
To ensure that your Dryopteris Dilatata Crispa Whiteside thrives, it is important to provide it with the right care.Water: This fern prefers moist soil, so it is important to keep the soil consistently damp. However, be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: This fern does not require a lot of fertilizer, but it can benefit from a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring.Soil: This fern prefers rich, well-draining soil that is high in organic matter.Sunlight: This fern prefers shade or partial shade and does not do well in direct sunlight.Hardiness Zones: This fern is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Broad Buckler Fern is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to slugs and snails, which can eat the fronds. To prevent this, you can use slug and snail bait or create barriers around the plant.
Habitat
Dryopteris Dilatata Crispa Whiteside is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found in damp, shady areas such as woodlands, hedgerows, and stream banks. It prefers moist, well-draining soil that is high in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Dryopteris Dilatata Crispa Whiteside?
A: This fern prefers moist soil, so it is important to keep the soil consistently damp. Water it whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: Can I grow this fern in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow this fern in a container as long as it has enough room to grow and the soil stays consistently moist.
Q: Can I divide this fern?
A: Yes, you can divide this fern in the spring or fall. Use a sharp knife or garden shears to separate the plant into smaller sections, making sure that each section has some roots attached.
Q: Does this fern require pruning?
A: No, this fern does not require pruning. However, you can remove any dead or damaged fronds as needed.
Related Plants
– Dryopteris filix-mas (Male Fern)- Dryopteris affinis (Golden-scaled Male Fern)- Dryopteris erythrosora (Autumn Fern)- Dryopteris marginalis (Marginal Wood Fern)
References
– The Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Dryopteris dilatata. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/16381/Dryopteris-dilatata/Details- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Dryopteris dilatata. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l930
