Fragrant Wood Fern
dryopteris fragrans
Also known as: ["Fern Fragrans","Siberian Wood Fern"]
Overview
A small, hardy fern with fragrant fronds, native to cooler regions.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Polypodiopsida |
| Order: | Polypodiales |
| Family: | Dryopteridaceae |
| Genus: | Dryopteris |
| Botanical Name: | Dryopteris fragrans |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shaded rock garden, woodland setting, or container in a cool, humid environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, humus-rich soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically 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:
Bright indirect light; tolerates partial shade. Adjust exposure based on season—reduce direct sun in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from harsh afternoon sun; place in a spot with filtered light indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sunlight; rotate plant for even growth; adjust light levels seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich, slightly acidic soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use a mix of peat, sand, and loam; avoid heavy clay soils; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but avoids extreme heat.
Keep away from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth (spring and summer)
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Spores or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect spores or divide rhizomes.
- Prepare medium.
- Plant spores or rhizomes.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Spore propagation: sterile peat-based mix; division: well-draining soil with organic matter.
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 spore propagation; water gently to avoid dislodging spores; keep rhizome divisions moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual fronds at the base using clean, sharp tools.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and encourage new growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, scissors, or a sharp knife.
Checklist
Use clean tools; remove only dead/damaged fronds; avoid cutting healthy growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Choose a new pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water at the base; ensure drainage; avoid wetting fronds.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone, ensuring moisture reaches the roots without saturating the soil. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing fronds, or stunted growth in excessive heat; browning or necrosis in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause fronds to brown or die back, especially if roots are not protected.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid frost exposure.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, wilting, and leaf burn, even with adequate water.
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade, and water more frequently during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that consume Dryopteris fragrans may experience mild gastrointestinal distress. The plant contains compounds that can irritate the digestive tract, though it is not highly toxic to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Dryopteris fragrans by dogs may result in mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of irritant compounds. The plant is not considered highly toxic to canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicDryopteris fragrans contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation upon ingestion. The plant is not typically considered highly toxic, but consumption can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Dryopteris fragrans toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this fern require full sun?
A: No, it thrives in partial to full shade.
Q: How often should I water Dryopteris fragrans?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Dryopteridaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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