Dryopteris affinis – Robust Evergreen Fern with Golden Scales

Dryopteris affinis, commonly known as the Golden-scaled Male Fern, is a hardy, evergreen fern prized for its lush, arching fronds adorned with attractive golden-brown scales on the stems. This fern forms dense clumps, adding rich texture and year-round greenery to shaded and woodland gardens.

Best positioned in partial to full shade, it thrives in moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil. Perfect for woodland borders, shaded beds, or underplanting larger shrubs and trees where it can create a naturalistic, tranquil atmosphere.

Care tips: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry spells. Mulching helps retain moisture and enrich the soil. Dryopteris affinis is low maintenance once established and highly tolerant of shade.

As a fern, it does not flower but produces spores on the undersides of mature fronds in summer, contributing to its natural lifecycle.

Feed lightly in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser or organic matter to encourage healthy frond growth.

Prune by removing dead or damaged fronds in late winter or early spring to tidy the plant and make way for fresh growth.

Dryopteris affinis is a resilient, elegant fern that brings year-round structure and colour to shady UK gardens.