Dryopteris wallichiana (alpine wood fern) is a member of the Dryopteridaceae family. This fern exhibits a tufted growth habit and is characterised by its semi evergreen foliage. It has a hardiness rating of hardy (cold winter [-15 to -10ºc]) and is hardy throughout most of the UK, even in severe winters. May not withstand open or exposed sites or central/northerly locations, with many evergreens suffering foliage damage and plants in pots being at increased risk.
When fully mature, Dryopteris wallichiana can reach an ultimate height of 0.5–1 metres and a spread of 0.5–1 metres. For optimal growth, it prefers an east–facing, north–facing, south–facing, or west–facing aspect and a sheltered position. It thrives best in chalk, clay, loam, or sand soil types and should be placed in full shade or partial shade.
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