Plants

Dryopteris australis is a clump-forming deciduous to semi-evergreen fern native to the southeastern United States. It thrives in moist, shady woodland settings and is prized by gardeners and designers for its robust stature, rich green fronds, and adaptability to a range of landscape conditions.

This fern typically grows 3 to 4 feet tall, with a similar spread, forming upright, vase-shaped crowns of finely divided, leathery fronds. The fronds emerge bright green and mature to a deep, glossy green, creating a lush, tropical effect that pairs well with other shade-loving perennials. In warm climates, the foliage may remain evergreen through the winter; in colder zones, it will die back and return reliably in spring.

Dryopteris australis prefers part to full shade and consistently moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil. While it tolerates short periods of dryness once established, regular moisture results in the most vigorous growth and lushest appearance. It is hardy in USDA Zones 5 to 9, making it suitable for a broad range of garden environments, from woodland gardens to shaded borders and rain gardens.