Plant Calculator
Enter the approximate length and width of the area you will be planting and click 'Calculate' to determine how many Dryopteris × australis you will need.
Correct and successful spacing is complex and depends on project conditions. We encourage you to call us at 877-ECO-PLUG for project specific recommendations and further assistance.
Dryopteris × australis
southern woodfern
- Category: Fern
- Hardiness Zone: 5-9
- Height: 3-4 Feet
- Spread: 2-3 Feet
- Spacing: 18 Inches
Dryopteris x australis is a natural hybrid (D. celsa x ludoviciana) found in wild populations from Louisiana to Virginia, but is a superb garden plant as far north as Zone 5. It is taller than either parent and a formidable addition to the garden.
Click here to download technical information for growers:
Soil Moisture Needs
| • | Moist |
Wetland Indicator Status
| • | Falcutative Wetland (FACW) |
Plug Type
| • | Landscape Plug™ |
For Animals
| • | Deer Resistant |
Propagation Type
| • | Tissue culture |
Additional Information about Dryopteris × australis
We are a big believer in a fern for every situation and Dryopteris x australis is no exception. A hybrid between fellow southern species Dryopteris celsa and Dryopteris ludoviciana, it is a stately fern with arching fronds reaching 4’-5’ tall. Great for a shady spot in a garden or as a foundational planting, woodfern forms dense clumps and spreads slowly by creeping rhizome. It is a sterile semi-evergreen hybrid and thrives in moist shade. However, one of its strengths is its ability to adapt to dry situations, the cold wet winters of zone 5, and the high summer heat and humidity of zone 9.
Displaying a taller nature than its parentage, Dryopteris × australis is a natural hybrid and can be found in wild populations from Louisiana to Virginia. It prefers moist, rich, well-drained acidic soils in full to partial shade. To ensure a verdant appearance, cut back fronds in early spring for new season’s growth.
Like most ferns in the Dryopteris genus, woodfern can tolerate dry spells once established and is very deer-resistant.
Growing & Maintenance Tips for Dryopteris × australis
Prefers moist, rich, well-drained, acidic soils in full to partial shade. Best used as a vertical accent in the woodland or shade garden or as a specimen plant.