Ferns

Hay-scented Fern has lacy green foliage that will take somewhat dry, relatively sunny sites. Dennstaedtia punctilobula is a deciduous spreader that can handle poor soils well. When the fronds are brushed against, they release the smell of fresh cut hay.  Native to open woods and wooded banks in the eastern and midwestern US. 

Brilliance™ Autumn Fern was selected for its striking new fronds which emerge throughout the spring and summer in shades of salmon, copper and orange.  The semi-evergreen fronds then mature to glossy medium green, adding a bright note to woodland settings.  Since Autumn Ferns spread slowly by rhizomes, they make a good groundcover in shady sites.  Consistent moisture is needed to promote new frond production.

PRN Preferred:  Bronze new growth all spring and summer.  Looks good throughout most of the winter.

Robust Male Fern has dark green foliage, and does well in deep shade, as well as in sun. Dryopteris filix-mas is a deciduous clump. Highly adaptable because it is relatively sun tolerant.  Dryopteris filix-mas is refered to as Male Fern because it was thought to be the male version of Athyrium filix-femina (Lady Fern).

Evergreen Wood Fern has dark green, leathery foliage and tolerates relatively dry sites and deep shade. Dryopteris marginalis is an evergreen clump that performs well on forest edges.  The foliage remains green through much of the winter, dying back in early spring as new fiddleheads emerge.

‘Jurassic Gold’ (‘Hollasic’) Wallich’s Wood Fern has amazing spring fronds in shades of yellow, gold and orange. The semi-evergreen foliage matures to bright green in summer, forming an attractive clump that lights up shady locations. Dryopteris ‘Jurassic Gold’ is named for is named for the Jurassic Coast in Southern England, but I assume that is also a nod to the fact that Ferns are a very ancient plant group. The very striking fronds make ‘Jurassic Gold’ a good container candidate for shady locations.

Dixie Wood Fern has shiny green foliage which is large and dramatic. It is a vigorous cross between the Log Fern and the Southern Wood Fern. A large, semi-evergreen clump.  Dryopteris x australis has a clumping fern with a tall upright arching appearance.  2021 PHS Gold Medal Plant.