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Green fronds of the male fern in a shaded gardenFerns

Dryopteris filix-mas

Male Fern

male fernshade plantnativeevergreenwoodland plant

The male fern is a robust, native fern that forms a stately funnel of bipinnate fronds. The foliage is bright green and elegantly arching, creating a lush atmosphere in shaded garden areas. The plant is semi-evergreen to evergreen and tolerates more drought than most ferns. A reliable choice for shade borders and woodland gardens.

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Before
After

Characteristics

Sun
Partial shade, Full shade
Water
Medium
Height
60–120 cm
Spread
60–100 cm
Hardiness zone
4–8
Family
Dryopteridaceae
Evergreen
Yes
Wildlife value
shelter for insects

Care guide

Plant in partial shade to full shade in moist, humus-rich soil. Mulch annually with leaf compost. Water regularly during dry spells, though the male fern tolerates drier conditions than many other ferns. Feeding is rarely needed — a layer of compost in spring is sufficient.

Pruning tips

Remove old, brown fronds in early spring before the new fiddleheads unfurl. Cut away damaged fronds throughout the year. Divide large clumps every four to five years in spring. Leave spore clusters on the underside of fronds for natural propagation.

Good companions

Large blue-green hosta leaves in a shaded gardenPerennials

Hosta sieboldiana

Hosta

Hosta is the quintessential shade plant, valued for its large, blue-green, ribbed leaves. Light purple or white bell-shaped flowers appear on tall stems in July and August. Over the years the plant forms substantial clumps that give a shaded border a lush character.

Full shadeMedium50–90 cm
Finely divided green fronds of the soft shield fern in a shady borderFerns

Polystichum setiferum

Soft Shield Fern

The soft shield fern is an elegant, evergreen fern with finely divided, soft green fronds that arch gracefully outwards. The plant forms a beautiful rosette and fits perfectly in shady borders and woodland gardens. Mature specimens can reach up to 120 centimetres across.

Partial shadeMedium
Dark green ivy leaves covering an old stone wallClimbers

Hedera helix

Common Ivy

Common Ivy is an evergreen climber that uses aerial roots to cover walls, fences, and trees. Its dark green, glossy leaves provide year-round greenery. Mature plants flower in autumn with inconspicuous green-yellow blooms that are an important late food source for bees and insects.

Full shadeMedium0–600 cm