Dryopteris affinis 'The King'

Common name: Golden Male Fern

Description: Dryopteris affinis 'The King' is a magnificent semi-evergreen fern producing bold, upright, broadly arching fronds of deep golden-green. One of the most impressive ferns for the garden, it develops into a substantial, statuesque clump over time. The new fronds emerge in a glorious shuttlecock-like arrangement each spring, unfurling from distinctive golden-brown scaly bases. Excellent for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and damp spots, it brings a lush, verdant quality to areas that can be challenging to plant.

Other benefits: bold architectural form, semi-evergreen, effective in deep shade

Wildlife attraction: provides habitat for insects and small animals

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 1.2m x 1m

Position: partial shade to full shade

Soil pH: neutral to acid; humus-rich preferred

Moisture: moist but well-drained; mulch annually

Winter hardiness: cold hardy to -20°C