Marginal Wood Fern

Common Names

Marginal Wood Fern, Evergreen Wood Fern, Marginal Shield Fern, Leather Wood Fern, Marginal Fern

Summary

Marginal Wood Fern is an evergreen eastern North American fern that forms a vase-shaped, non-spreading clump about 1.5–2 feet tall and wide, with bluish-green, leathery fronds that stay green through winter; distinctive features include sori along the leaf margins and pale tawny scales on the stipe, and the plant is deer- and rabbit-resistant, typical of shaded woodland, rocky ledges, and ravines habitats. For cultivation, provide partial to full shade and consistently moist, humus-rich soil that remains well-drained, tolerating acidic to neutral soils; mulch helps conserve moisture and shelter from strong winds supports frond longevity. Hardy in USDA zones 3–8, it is easy to grow with low maintenance; after establishment, water regularly (about six weeks after planting, then during extended dry periods), and prune dead or damaged fronds as needed. Propagation is by division or spores. In landscapes, it serves in woodland gardens, rock gardens, borders, mass plantings, and native plantings, providing year-round structure and texture.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

12-24 inches

Spread

12-24 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 3-8

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally partial shade; tolerates full shade; some populations occur in sunny stony bluffs and ridges.

Soil Type

Moist, well-drained, humus-rich, acidic soil

Soil Drainage

Moist but well-drained soil

Soil pH

No single ideal pH is specified; tolerates acidic to slightly alkaline soils

Bloom Color

Insignificant

Bloom Time

Does not bloom in any season.

Foliage Color

Green

Fall Foliage Color

Green

Leaf Lifecycle

Other

Growth Rate

Medium

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter

Propagation Methods

Spores and Division

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees and birds