Dryopteris Linearis Polydactylon

Dryopteris Linearis Polydactylon

Why Buy Me?

• Easy to grow
• Great for shade
• Helps to create a woodland themed garden

Growing Conditions

Light:
Prefers partial to full shade. Thrives in woodland gardens and shaded borders. Can tolerate some morning sun if soil remains moist, but best frond colour and health occur in shady conditions.

Soil:
Moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil. Prefers loam or sandy soil that is neutral to slightly acidic. Avoid very dry or compacted soil; amend with compost or leaf mould to improve structure and moisture retention.

Exposure:
Hardy throughout the UK. Performs best in sheltered positions that protect the delicate fronds from wind damage. Fully frost-hardy and suitable for northern or upland gardens.

Drought Tolerance:
Low. Requires consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Although mature plants can handle short periods of dryness, prolonged drought leads to early frond browning.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Plant in early spring or autumn, when soil is moist and temperatures are mild, giving the roots time to establish before extreme heat or cold.

Spacing:
Space 60–75 cm (24–30 inches) apart. Grows to around 60–90 cm (24–36 inches) in height and spread, forming a neat, vase-shaped clump of finely divided fronds.

Watering & Fertilization:
Water regularly, especially in dry conditions. Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer or organic mulch in spring to feed the plant and retain soil moisture.

Mulching & Pruning:
Mulch annually with compost, bark, or leaf mould. In late winter or early spring, remove any old or damaged fronds before new ones emerge to maintain a clean appearance.

Propagation:
Propagate by division in early spring or autumn. Older clumps can be carefully lifted and separated into smaller sections with roots and growing points. Can also be propagated from spores, though this is a longer process.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
Fresh, finely divided fronds unfurl in a rich green colour, adding delicate texture to shaded garden areas.

Summer:
Full, lush clump of soft, lace-like foliage provides structure and texture in shady garden beds or woodland settings.

Autumn:
Fronds may begin to fade or take on golden-brown tones. Adds a soft, natural transition in autumnal planting schemes.

Winter:
Deciduous. Loses its fronds and goes dormant. Apply mulch to protect the root crown in colder areas if needed.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Offers cover for insects and small invertebrates. Helps support the micro-ecosystem of woodland or natural-style gardens.

Garden Use:
Perfect for shady borders, woodland gardens, underplanting shrubs, or naturalistic plantings. Adds fine texture and elegance to low-light areas.

Companion Plants:
Pairs well with other ferns like Athyrium niponicum, and shade plants such as Hostas, Heucheras, Brunnera, Pulmonaria, and Tiarella. Combines beautifully with early spring bulbs like Snowdrops or Erythroniums for seasonal contrast.

Transform your home and garden with the Dryopteris Linearis Polydactylon , a must-have for any season. Order online now for quick and easy shopping, or drop by your local Thompson's Branch to explore it up close and get personalised recommendations.