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Fern · EvergreenSKU 171965

Dryopteris Atrata 5 Litre Pot

Dryopteris Atrata 5 Litre Pot

Dryopteris atrata
Shaggy shield fern is a slightly larger growing fern with leathery leaves surrounded by serrated leaflets. Has black scales that give it it's name and makes it an interesting addition to a fern collection.
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£29.00
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Nursery grown in Cheshire
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Expert planting advice
Black fern
Dryopteris atrata
Pet Safe
Sunlight
Partial shade, Full shade
Hardiness
H5 (-15 to -10°C)
Mature size
0.5-1m tall × 0.5-1m wide
Foliage
Evergreen
Soil
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Aspect
North-facing, South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Supplied as
Pot Grown
Growth rate
Moderate
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About Dryopteris Atrata 5 Litre Pot

Dryopteris atrata – Elegant, Dark-Stemmed Fern for Woodland Drama

Dryopteris atrata (formerly Dryopteris cycadina), also known as the shaggy shield fern or black wood fern, is a sophisticated and eye-catching fern admired for its rich green, finely divided fronds held on striking black stems. These dark, wiry stalks provide bold contrast against the fresh foliage, lending a dramatic, almost exotic character to shaded garden spaces. Upright yet graceful in habit, Dryopteris atrata adds texture, height, and visual intrigue to woodland plantings, shady borders, or container displays.

Emerging in spring with a bronzy hue before maturing to a deep, lush green, the fronds create soft, arching clumps that remain attractive throughout the growing season. This deciduous fern thrives in partial to full shade and prefers moist, fertile soil with good drainage. It is hardy, low-maintenance, and ideal for layering in naturalistic or structured shade gardens.

Pair Dryopteris atrata with soft-textured companions like Tiarella cordifolia, Brunnera ‘Jack Frost’, or Pulmonaria ‘Opal’ for a contrast of foliage shapes and tones. The dark stems also make a striking partner for paler variegated plants like Hosta ‘Patriot’ or silvery Lamium maculatum.

Key Features:

  • Fronds: Finely divided, dark green fronds with dramatic black central stalks (rachis)

  • Growth Habit: Upright to arching clumps with a graceful, textured presence

  • Seasonal Interest: Spring emergence with bronze tones; lush foliage into late autumn

  • Height & Spread: Reaches around 0.5 - 1m tall and wide

Ideal For:

  • Woodland gardens and shaded borders

  • Adding dark contrast to lush green or silver foliage plants

  • Underplanting trees or using in naturalised settings

  • Containers in dappled or full shade

Growing Conditions:

  • Position: Partial to full shade

  • Soil: Moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil

  • Maintenance: Easy-care; simply remove old fronds in early spring

Why Choose Dryopteris atrata?

  • Unique black stems for dramatic contrast
  • Elegant fronds perfect for shady spots
  • Hardy, reliable, and low-maintenance
  • Combines beautifully with other foliage-focused plants

Dryopteris atrata offers a beautiful combination of refined texture and bold stem colour. Ideal for creating atmosphere in shaded spaces, this fern is a must-have for any woodland or foliage-rich garden design.

Plants well with

Our growers' picks to plant alongside Dryopteris Atrata 5 Litre Pot for a fuller, longer-lasting display.