Dixie Wood Fern

The Dixie Wood Fern is a dense, shade-loving perennial that is a favorite with many gardeners. The feathery fronds feature a central midrib and smaller segments or pinnae covered in delicate leaflets. Also known as Dryopteris x australis, this fern is a bold green that will brighten up an outdoor space. The Dixie Wood Fern is a typical fern in terms of care, but in some instances, it can step outside what is expected of ferns, making it a versatile landscape plant or a good option for gardeners who do not have a space conducive to most ferns. Plant this fern in a bed or border where it will add height near the back of a planting. It is a natural fit for a woodland space. The large fronds can conceal a foundation wall or green up a shady corner of a yard. The Dixie Wood Fern is a native plant, so it thrives with minimal care once acclimated. Grow this semi-evergreen beauty as a perennial in USDA zones 5 through 8. Dixie Wood Fern Care This fern has medium to high water needs, so keep the soil consistently moist. The soil should be acidic and rich to support new growth. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base to feed the plant and retain moisture. The Dixie Wood Fern does very well in the shade but can handle sunnier positions. Plants grown in the sun need water more often, while plants in the shade can dry out more. This beauty is a heavy feeder, so apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer. The delicate fronds are prone to fungus, so target water to the root zone and keep the foliage dry as much as possible. Dixie Wood Fern Spacing This sizable fern will reach 4 to 5 feet tall and grow 2 to 3 feet wide. The gently arching fronds have an upright growth habit, so space plants 4 feet apart to create a full and dense planting.