Dryopteris dilitata RHS AGM

Dryopteris dilatata, the broad buckler fern, is a beautifully textured, reliable garden fern with a naturally elegant presence. Reaching 60–100 cm tall, it forms a full, shuttlecock-shaped clump of arching, finely divided green fronds.

It thrives in partial to full shade, in moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil, and is wonderfully hardy, coping well with cool climates and woodland conditions. Once established, it asks for very little, cheerfully filling shadowy corners with lush greenery.

Interesting fact: Despite its refined looks, Dryopteris dilatata is impressively tough — it’s native to much of Europe and can happily colonise forests, moorlands, and even rocky, upland places where more delicate ferns throw in the towel.

Awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. (RHS AGM).