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Key characteristics

Family: Dryopteridaceae
Height: 18-24 inches tall
Width: 18-24 inches wide
Flower color: Not applicable; this is a fern species
Foliage color: Glossy, deep green fronds with recurved tips
Bloom time: Not applicable; ferns do not produce flowers
Light: Partial to full shade
Water: Moist, well-drained soil
Maintenance: Low; requires occasional removal of old fronds to maintain appearance
Growing zone: USDA Zones 4-8
Wildlife: Attracts birds and beneficial insects like pollinators

Perennials

Dryopteris dilatata 'Recurvata'

Weeping Broad Buckler Fern

Dryopteris dilatata 'Recurvata' is a fern known for its gracefully arching fronds, which have a unique recurved shape, giving them a delicate, ruffled appearance. The deep green fronds grow in a vase-like formation, creating a soft, textural contrast in shaded or woodland gardens. This fern does not bloom, but its lush foliage offers visual interest throughout the growing season.

Native to Europe and parts of Asia, 'Recurvata' thrives in shaded areas with consistent moisture.

Light

Partial to full shade

Water

Moist, well-drained soil

Bloom time

Not applicable; ferns do not produce flowers

Find this plant

Works well in

Borders
Shade Gardens
Woodland Gardens
Pollinator Gardens
Bird Gardens

Companion plants

Japanese forest grass · Astilbes · Heucheras · Siberian bugloss · Sweet woodruff · Foamflowers

Design tip

Use it as a steady framework plant, repeating it along a bed to tie separate plantings together. Keep it out of hot afternoon sun and layer it with woodland companions for a full, settled look.