Dryopteris dilatata aka Broad Buckler Fern

Dryopteris dilatata is known as broad buckler fern or broad wood fern. This perennial grows across Europe and parts of Asia. Its native range includes the Azores and reaches northern Iran and Mongolia. It is native to Britain and Ireland. Wild plants grow in woods, hedgebanks, and wet heaths. They also occupy shaded rock ledges and cracks.

The plant forms a clump with fronds that rise and arch outward. Garden plants often reach 2–4 feet [0.6–1.2 metres] tall. Some garden guides give heights near 5 feet [1.5 metres]. Wild plants can also reach that height. Spread ranges from about 1.6–4 feet [0.5–1.2 metres]. The soft, thin fronds have a fine texture. Their deep green blades divide two or three times. Young fronds have a broad triangular outline. Older blades may become oval or lance-shaped. Dark brown scales cover the stalks and central ribs. Frond edges may curl under, and the segments have strong teeth.

This fern may keep some leaves through winter or lose them. Autumn foliage can turn golden yellow before it falls. It makes neither flowers nor fruit, and spreads through spores. Grow it in partial or full shade, with dappled light preferred. Cool soil rich in organic matter suits it well. Keep the soil moist, with good drainage. Sources differ on drought tolerance, so avoid letting roots dry out. It grows in clay, loam, sand, or chalk. RHS lists tolerance of acid, neutral, and alkaline soils. RHS rates its cold hardiness H6. US sources give differing ranges, from zones 4–8 to 5–9.

Use this fern in woodland beds, shade gardens, or naturalized areas. Its arching leaves also suit foundation beds and spaces beneath shrubs. Plants can serve as ground cover or a foliage accent. Deer seldom damage it, and sources also note rabbit resistance. Growth is moderate, and full size takes about five to ten years. Divide clumps in spring or sow ripe spores. Remove dead or damaged fronds as needed. Serious pest and disease troubles are uncommon. Rust, leaf gall, and fungal leaf spots can occur.

PFAF records cooked young fronds and roots as food uses. It also warns that fresh plants contain thiaminase, which can harm health. Heat destroys this enzyme, but that does not establish overall food safety. PFAF records past root use against internal worms, with professional supervision required. Other recorded uses include hair rinses and packing fruit with leaves.