Dryopteris carthusiana: Spinulose Woodfern

Dryopteris carthusiana, the Spinulose Woodfern, Narrow Buckler Fern, or Toothed Wood Fern, is a widespread, deciduous fern native to the Northern Hemisphere. It forms a clump of erect, bipinnate to tripinnate fronds that are a light, fresh green. The pinnae are deeply cut with spinulose (spiny-toothed) margins, giving a fine, lacy texture. It grows in moist woods, swamps, and thickets.

Plant Profile

This fern thrives in partial to full shade and moist, acidic, humus-rich soil. It is an excellent native for naturalistic woodland gardens, stream banks, and wet meadows. The fine, spinulose texture distinguishes it from the similar D. intermedia. It is tough, adaptable, and provides great seasonal interest with its lacy green fronds. Deciduous; cut back in late winter.