1. Coastal Woodfern – Dryopteris arguta
(dry-OP-ter-iss ar-GOO-tuh )
Family: Dryopteridaceae (Woodfern Family)
Native to: West coast of North America, mostly in the northwest but S. to Baja; locally on Catalina
& San Clemente Isl, Santa Monica Mtns, San Gabriel Mtns. Normally grows on north slopes and/or
shady creeks in oak woodland, chaparral, coastal sage scrub up to 5000 ft. elevation.
spreading perennial fern mature height: 2-3 ft.
mature width: 2-3 ft.
Robust native fern that is somewhat variable in its appearance. Some types have an almost ruffled
appearance; leaves are never stiff or sharp. Leaves dark green, about 1/3 as wide as long. Plants
attain largest size in foggy, moist climates. Will be drought-deciduous in dry summer conditions. A
regal-looking fern that spreads moderately from rhizomes.
Growth characteristics:
Non-bloomer. Spores are contained in rounded sori that are midway between the
midrib and edge of individual leaflets.
Blooms/fruits:
Uses in the garden: One of the best ferns for a woodsy appearance. Prettier than the Sword Fern.
Good choice for wet areas of the garden – perhaps in an area with sprinkler overspray. Would also
work well in large containers. Plant has been used as an antimicrobial medicine.
Sensible substitute for: Non-native ferns, including Woodferns.
Attracts: Good cover for birds, insects.
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Part-shade to full shade.
Any well-drained soil; best in slightly acid soil (6.0-7.0).
Looks best with some water (Zone 2-3 to 3) but will take Zone 2.
Light applications OK
Best with an undisturbed leaf mulch.
Easy to grow. Plant is host for the Sudden Oak Death (SOD) pathogen, so may be
hard to find in nurseries. Cut off old leaves (fronds) to improve appearance.
Management:
Propagation: from spores:
challenging
by divisions: relatively easy in winter/spring.
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 7, 11
1/29/11
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