Shiny Wood Fern
dryopteris cycadina
Also known as: ["Aspidium cycadina","Polystichum cycadina"]
Overview
A hardy, evergreen fern with glossy, dark green fronds, native to East Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Polypodiopsida |
| Order: | Polypodiales |
| Family: | Dryopteridaceae |
| Genus: | Dryopteris |
| Botanical Name: | Dryopteris cycadina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shady garden bed or indoor pot with indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, rich, slightly acidic soil with organic matter like peat or compost.
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 unless significant overcrowding occurs.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in warmer months.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light to prevent scorching; place in filtered light outdoors or near an east-facing window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to dappled light
Avoid direct sun; rotate plant for even growth; adjust light in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Maintain consistent moisture without saturation; avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich, slightly acidic soil
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure good drainage; maintain organic content; check pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (down to 50°F or 10°C) are acceptable in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; maintain moderate warmth year-round.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Spores or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Spores: Sow on surface, keep moist, and wait for germination.
- Division: Carefully separate rhizomes, replant immediately.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Spores: sterile peat-based mix; division: standard potting mix with good drainage.
Hormone
Not required for division; spores do not use rooting hormone.
Timeline
Spores: 6–12 months to germinate and establish; division: immediate establishment with proper care.
Tools Needed
Spores: Spray bottle, sterile container; division: Sharp knife, gloves, new pots.
Quick Tips
Keep spores consistently moist; divide only healthy rhizomes; avoid overwatering after division.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual fronds at the base with clean cuts; avoid cutting into the rhizome.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and health; occasional thinning to improve air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors.
Checklist
Check for dead fronds; sterilize tools; cut cleanly at base; dispose of removed fronds.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, 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; beneficial for soil refreshment.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water sparingly 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 deeply at the base of the plant, ensuring even saturation of the root zone while allowing excess to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; adjust pH with peat moss if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing fronds, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause fronds to wilt or discolor in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; maintain consistent soil moisture.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or dry out in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
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 may experience irritation from calcium oxalate crystals if they ingest the rhizome or fronds. Symptoms are typically mild but can cause discomfort and mild gastrointestinal issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of the rhizome and fronds can cause irritation due to calcium oxalate crystals. While not life-threatening, it may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and oral discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe rhizome and fronds of Dryopteris cycadina contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause mechanical irritation upon ingestion. The plant is not highly toxic but can lead to discomfort and mild gastrointestinal distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much light does Dryopteris cycadina need?
A: It thrives in partial to full shade, making it ideal for shaded garden areas.
Q: Is Dryopteris cycadina toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this fern require frequent watering?
A: It prefers consistently moist soil but is moderately drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Dryopteridaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to dappled light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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