Broad Buckler Fern
dryopteris dilatata
Also known as: ["Broad Buckler Fern","Broad Buckler-fern"]
Overview
A deciduous fern with dark green, pinnate fronds that form a dense clump, native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Polypodiopsida |
| Order: | Polypodiales |
| Family: | Dryopteridaceae |
| Genus: | Dryopteris |
| Botanical Name: | Dryopteris dilatata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shady garden bed or container in a protected spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or yellowing fronds.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from direct sun to avoid scorching; ideal for shaded garden spots or north-facing windows.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sunlight; provide dappled light; rotate occasionally for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil
pH: Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); thrives in cooler climates.
Protect from frost; avoid extreme heat; maintain consistent cool temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth (spring and summer)
Apply fertilizer to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Spores or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect spores or divide rhizomes.
- Prepare medium.
- Plant spores or divisions.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when mature.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent temperatures (60–70°F or 15–21°C).
Medium
Spores: Sphagnum moss or sterile seed-starting mix; division: well-draining garden soil.
Hormone
Not required for spores; optional for rhizome division to encourage root growth.
Timeline
Spores: 6–12 months to germinate and establish; division: immediate establishment with new growth in weeks.
Tools Needed
Spore sieve, sterile knife, pots, humidity dome, watering can.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools for spores; water gently; maintain humidity for spores.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut fronds at the base using clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and encourage new growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Identify dead fronds; use clean tools; cut at base; dispose of debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure adequate drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for larger specimens.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution without wetting the foliage; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or leaf mold to enhance fertility and structure; ensure good drainage with perlite or sand if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing fronds, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn brown or brittle; growth slows significantly in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Hot Stress
Fronds may wilt, turn yellow, or develop brown edges in excessive heat.
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade, and water more frequently during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Dryopteris dilatata fronds may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The plant is not highly toxic to felines, but ingestion should be prevented.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Dryopteris dilatata fronds by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic to canines, but ingestion should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicDryopteris dilatata contains small amounts of toxic compounds, primarily in the fronds, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The plant is not typically considered highly toxic to humans, but caution is advised.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Dryopteris dilatata toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this fern require full sun?
A: No, it prefers partial to full shade.
Q: How often should I water Dryopteris dilatata?
A: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Dryopteridaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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