Perennial – Dixie Wood Fern

Dixie Wood Fern 

Botanical name: dryopteris x australis 

Beginner friendly?: moderate 

Average size at maturity: 3-4 ft in height with a spread of 2-3 ft 

Hardy zone: zones 5-9 

Growth rate: reaches fully mature size in about 2 growing seasons 

Foliage color: dark green 

Pruning instructions: prune withered or browning foliage as needed 

Propagation methods: propagate by division during the spring or fall months 

Landscape use: shade garden, borders/edging, background planting, rain garden 

Special features: deer resistant, shade tolerant 

Light needs: 2-4 hours of sun per day 

Watering instructions: keep soil consistently moist but not soggy 

Fertilizing instructions : use a slow-release balanced fertilizer once a year in the mid spring 

Best time to plant: spring, fall 

Best type of soil:  loam 

Companion plants: other ferns, hostas, coral bells, astilbe 

Toxicity level: toxic for humans and pets if ingested 

Invasive species: no