Dryopteris affinis

Scaly Male Fern

The Scaly Male Fern, Dryopteris affinis, is a semi-evergreen fern forming bold rosettes of yellow-green fronds maturing to deep green. Reaching medium to large size, its stems carry persistent golden scales that give year-round texture. With RHS Award of Garden Merit, it is easy to grow and a fine choice for shaded Irish borders.

Size

Max Height

1.0 m — 1.5 m

Max Spread

0.5 m — 1.0 m

Growth Habit

Forms dense upright tufts or clusters of leaves and stems.

Planting Position

Sunlight i Indicates how much direct sunlight the plant needs each day. Full sun means 6+ hours, part shade is filtered or morning sun, and full shade is little to no direct sun.

Full Sun Full Shade Part Shade

Aspect i Aspect refers to the direction the planting spot faces (north, south, east or west). It affects light levels, warmth and exposure.

North South East West

Exposure i Exposure describes how sheltered or exposed a plant’s position is, particularly to wind and weather.

Exposed / Sheltered

Hardiness i Hardiness indicates how well a plant tolerates cold conditions outdoors. Higher ratings generally mean greater frost tolerance.

(−15 to −10 °C) Cold-hardy

Ideal Soil Conditions

Soil Type i Soil type describes the texture of the soil (clay, sand, loam, chalk). This affects drainage, nutrients and how roots grow.

Chalk Clay Loam Sand

Soil Moisture i Soil moisture tells you how wet or dry the soil should be for best growth. Match this to your garden conditions for healthier plants.

Moist but permeable / Free draining

Soil pH i Soil pH measures how acidic or alkaline the soil is. It affects nutrient availability and can impact plant growth.

Acid Alkaline Neutral

Plant Uses & Merits

Uses

Flower Borders
Underplanting

Merits

Generally disease-free
Generally pest-free
Low Maintenance
RHS | Award Of Garden Merit

Dryopteris affinis Description

Planting Guide for Dryopteris affinis

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Care guide for Dryopteris affinis

Items must be returned within 30 days after receiving your order. Items must be returned in the same condition in which they were received, be unworn/unused, have any tags still attached, and include all the original packaging.

Uses for Dryopteris affinis & Garden Styles it suits

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