Bare Root Marginal Shield Fern (Dryopteris marginalis)

Hardy, North American perennial
Description: Leathery, evergreen fronds about 6 inches wide; distinctly blue-green in color
Habit: Grows to 2 feet in height
Culture: Prefers moist, acid, humus-rich soil and part to full shade
Hardiness: Cold hardy to USDA Zones 3 through 8

This classic Eastern North American fern has broadly blade-shaped fronds that taper suddenly at the tip and arise out of a central crown. The sori, or spore cases, are located on the margins of the leaflets, hence the common name. The Marginal Shield Fern was first introduced into Britain in 1772 under the Latin name Nephrodium marginale. Hardy ferns were being cultivated in America by the mid-19th century and horticultural books contained lengthy descriptions of cultural techniques. Ferns were often recommended for planting in rock-work.

This plant will ship bare root. Arrives as a Medium Clump.

Bare root planting tips:

~ If you can't plant immediately, store your plant in a cool location and keep the roots moist or pot in a container with a nursery potting mix from your local garden center.
~ Before planting, let the roots soak for several hours as you prepare the site. You'll want to dig a large enough hole so the root mass can spread out and the plant is at the same soil level as when it was growing in the nursery.
~ Once planted, water it in well and wait a month before fertilizing. Mulching will help to maintain moisture and raise soil temperatures for faster growth.