BBC Gardeners' World

Plant details

• Common Name: Buckler fern
• Genus: Dryopteris
• Species: erythrosora
• Skill Level: beginner
• Hardiness: hardy
• Height: 0.6m
• Spread: 0.6m

This striking, deciduous fern has triangular-shaped fronds, which are coppery-red when young and slowly mature to dark green. Like most ferns, it grows best in rock gardens, woodland or wild gardens where it can hide in shady spots and sinks its roots into damp, moist soil. However, it also does surprisingly well when grown in pots, so it can also be used on shaded patios or under pergolas. The plant does like a lot of water and humidity in the air around it, so it will need regular attention if it is grow in containers. To give the fern the best start, add lots of well-rotted leaf mould, composted pine needles or garden compost when planting. In milder areas this fern may stay evergreen all year round, but in cooler area it will die back in the winter. Cut back any brown or old fronds in winter to allow new growth to emerge.