Dryopteris sichotensis (syn. D. coreano Ssp. Montana)

Dryopteris sichotensis – Korean Mountain Fern

Dryopteris sichotensis, commonly known as the Korean Mountain Fern or Northern Shield Fern, is an unusual, hardy, semi-evergreen fern valued for its elegant, upright foliage and graceful architectural form. Native to the mountain woodlands of East Asia, this distinctive fern produces fresh, bright green fronds in spring, developing into broad, finely divided foliage with attractive brown-scaled stems.

Growing approximately 75–120 cm high and 60–100 cm wide, it forms a substantial, gently arching clump, bringing height and texture to shaded planting schemes.

Thriving in partial to full shade, it prefers moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil and a sheltered position.

Ideal for woodland gardens, shaded borders, underplanting trees and naturalistic planting, it combines beautifully with hostas and other shade-loving perennials. A relatively uncommon fern that deserves wider cultivation in Irish gardens.