Dryopteris 'Toothed Wood Fern'

Dryopteris intermedia: Toothed Wood Fern

Refined and quietly rugged, Dryopteris intermedia—commonly known as Toothed Wood Fern—offers a lacy texture and elegant form that belies its tough, adaptable nature. Its dark green, finely toothed fronds rise in a symmetrical vase shape, bringing lightness and structure to shaded gardens. Semi-evergreen and native to Eastern North America, this fern thrives in woodland soils and remains attractive well into fall, making it a resilient, low-maintenance choice for naturalistic or designed landscapes.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 45–75 cm
• Spread: 45–60 cm
• Flower Colour: None (foliage plant)
• Flowering Period: N/A
• Foliage: Dark green, finely toothed, semi-evergreen fronds in a vase-like form
• Sunlight Requirements: Part shade to full shade
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil

Uses and Benefits: Dryopteris intermedia excels in woodland gardens, shade borders, and naturalized plantings. It tolerates a range of soil types—including rocky or root-heavy areas—and holds its form beautifully through the growing season. Its understated elegance provides a cooling, textural contrast to bolder foliage, while its native origins make it a valuable addition to ecologically conscious designs. Deer resistant and easy to grow, it's a dependable choice for layered shade gardens.

Companion Plants: Surround Dryopteris intermedia with the pewter-patterned foliage of Heuchera 'Silver Scrolls', the starry spring blooms of Tiarella 'Pink Skyrocket', and the soft, late-summer plumes of Pennisetum alopecuroides. This mix blends fine texture, silver tones, and seasonal drama in a dynamic composition that shifts with the light and the seasons.

Care Instructions: Keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells, and mulch in spring to retain moisture and enrich soil. Cut back any damaged or withered fronds in early spring. This fern is slow to spread but may be divided in spring if desired. Plant in a protected, shaded location for best performance, particularly in exposed winter areas.

History: Native to the woodlands of Eastern North America, Dryopteris intermedia is a long-standing favourite in native plant gardens. Its name refers to the tiny teeth lining each leaflet, a subtle detail that adds to its textural appeal. Valued for its hardiness and refined habit, it remains a go-to fern for shaded landscapes.

Final Thoughts: Natural, nuanced, and quietly beautiful, the Toothed Wood Fern brings balance and texture to any shade planting. It’s a classic woodland fern that pairs resilience with timeless elegance.