Dryopteris cycadina (shaggy shield fern) is a member of the Dryopteridaceae family. This fern exhibits a bushy growth habit and is characterized by its semi evergreen foliage. It has a hardiness rating of hardy – average winter (-10 to -5ºc) and is hardy through most of the UK apart from inland valleys, at altitude and central / northerly locations. May suffer foliage damage and stem dieback in harsh winters in cold gardens. Plants in pots are more vulnerable.
When fully mature, Dryopteris cycadina can reach an ultimate height of 0.5–1 metres and a spread of 0.1–0.5 metres. For optimal growth, it prefers north–facing or east–facing or south–facing or west–facing aspect and sheltered positions. It thrives best in chalk or clay or loam or sand soil types and should be placed in full shade or partial shade.
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Foliage
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Fruit
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Stem
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