Dryopteris intermedia aka Intermediate Woodfern
Taxonomy ID: 10106
Dryopteris intermedia, also known as the intermediate wood fern or evergreen wood fern, is a perennial and evergreen plant that is native to eastern North America. It is a diploid species and serves as the parent to several hybrid species, including Dryopteris carthusiana. Common names for this fern include intermediate shield fern, fancy wood fern, fancy fern, glandular wood fern, American shield fern, and common wood fern. The fern can often be mistaken for other wood fern species such as D. carthusiana, D. campyloptera, and D. expansa. However, it can be distinguished by the length of the innermost pinnule on the bottom side of the bottom pinna, which is longer than adjacent pinnules in D. carthusiana but shorter or equal in length in D. intermedia.
This clump-forming fern has upright to arching fronds that are triangular in shape. The fronds are divided into lance-shaped, toothed, mid-green leaflets or pinnae. The underside of mature fronds is often covered in fine hairs.
While Intermediate Wood Fern is a rare houseplant, it is relatively easy to grow and requires regular watering to thrive. It prefers long-lasting, direct light and should be placed within one foot of a window. Well-draining soil is ideal for this fern, and it typically does not require additional fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size. Belonging to the Dryopteris genus, Intermediate Wood Fern is native to North America.
Common names
Intermediate Woodfern, Evergreen Wood Fern, Fancy FernMore information about Intermediate Woodfern
How difficult is it to take care of Intermediate Woodfern
Caring for Intermediate Woodfern is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.
What are the water needs for Intermediate Woodfern
Intermediate Woodfern should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Intermediate Woodfern
Intermediate Woodfern loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
What is the sunlight requirement for Intermediate Woodfern
Intermediate Woodfern requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Evergreen Wood Fern is always in the right place to thrive.
How to fertilize Intermediate Woodfern
The Intermediate Woodfern is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.
Is Intermediate Woodfern toxic to humans/pets?
There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Dryopteris Genus

Dryopteris arguta Coastal Woodfern
Dryopteris oreades Dwarf Male Fern
Dryopteris remota Remote Wood Fern
Dryopteris odontoloma
Dryopteris barbigera

Dryopteris wallichiana Alpine Woodfern
Dryopteris blanfordii

Dryopteris cristata Crested Buckler Fern

Dryopteris expansa Northern Buckler Fern
