Dryopteris cristata – aka the Crested Wood Fern – is a well-mannered native fern that brings elegance to damp, shady spots without demanding the spotlight (or much sunlight, for that matter). Curiously named as it isn't crested! Topping out at about 60 cm tall (2 feet) with a similar spread, it's perfectly sized for woodland borders, shady gardens, or the damp corners your other plants avoid.
It thrives in moist to wet soils and partial to full shade, making it a go-to choice for bog gardens or shady rain gardens. Cold-hardy and deer-resistant, it asks for little but gives back year-round structure.
