Dryopteris marginalis (fr: Dryoptère à sores marginaux | En: Marginal wood fern)

Dryopteris marginalis

Fr : Dryoptère à sores marginaux
En : Marginal wood fern
Alternate names / Noms alternatifs : Evergreen shield fern, marginal fern | Fougère bouclier persistante, fougère marginale

A true woodland classic, the Marginal wood fern is one of the few ferns to stay green year-round—earning it the nickname Evergreen shield fern. In early spring and late fall, when most other plants are down for the count, this fern is anything but marginal! Its leathery, blue-green fronds remain upright and attractive, offering a refreshing splash of green during otherwise bleak seasons.

Native to rich hardwood forests and rocky, well-drained slopes, Dryopteris marginalis thrives in part to full shade and is remarkably low-maintenance. It forms neat, vase-shaped clumps and works beautifully in shaded gardens, around mossy rocks, or at the base of trees. It's especially valued in restoration and woodland plantings for its durability and structure.

• Height: 30–60 cm (1–2 ft)

• Light: Part shade to full shade

• Moisture: Moist to slightly dry, well-drained soils

• Soil: Tolerates acidic to neutral soils, often in rocky or wooded settings

• Seasonal interest: Year-round, with peak ornamental value in early spring and late autumn