Dryopteris affinis 'Linearis Polydactyla' (Golden-scaled Male Fern) – Hardy Fern (Set of 3 or 6)

Finely divided, narrow fronds tipped with delicate crests, giving a light, lace like effect in shade.

This is one of the most elegant hardy ferns there is, and it holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit. The shuttlecock crowns throw up narrow fronds whose fingered tips catch the light and move in the smallest breeze, which is what lifts it above the plainer male ferns.

It is semi-evergreen in most British gardens, often keeping its foliage well into winter before fresh golden green croziers unfurl in spring. Long lived and undemanding, it thrives in damp shade where little else will.

Cultural Information

• Common Name: Golden-scaled male fern, narrow male fern
• Fully Grown Height and Spread: 60cm to 90cm tall by 60cm to 90cm wide
• Growth Habit: Upright shuttlecock with gracefully arching fronds
• Perfect For: Woodland gardens, shaded borders, north facing beds, under trees and containers
• Foliage: Narrow, finely divided fronds with crested tips, golden green in spring and maturing mid green
• Flowering Time: None. Ferns carry no flowers and spread by spores.
• Planting Position: Partial shade to full shade, sheltered from wind in soil that stays moist. Grows well in a container.
• Soil Type: Moist, humus rich soil that drains freely. Dig in leaf mould or garden compost when planting.
• Hardiness: Fully hardy. It comes through a British winter outdoors without protection.
• Maintenance: Low. Cut away old or tired fronds in early spring before the new ones unfurl, and mulch in spring to hold moisture in.
• Seasonal Interest: Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter.
• Type: Hardy semi-evergreen fern, holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit