Dryopteris dilatata 'Crispa Whiteside' - 2026

Dryopteris dilatata 'Crispa Whiteside' is a semi-evergreen fern prized for its crisped, toothed fronds and compact, bushy habit. This selected form of the native Buckler Fern forms a neat, deciduous plant up to 60 cm in height and spread. The sterile fronds create a dense, arching mound of finely cut, leathery foliage, while the fertile fronds rise upright from the centre, bearing clusters of spores. As the fertile fronds mature, they turn brown and remain standing through winter, adding seasonal interest to shaded gardens.

Preferring moist, well-drained, acidic soils, Dryopteris dilatata 'Crispa Whiteside' thrives in partial to full shade. It is particularly suited to woodland gardens, shaded borders, and damp, lime-free areas. Low-maintenance, deer-resistant, and hardy to temperatures as low as -20°C, this fern is a reliable choice for adding texture and structure to shaded parts of the garden.