Dryopteris marginalis
Marginal Wood Fern
General
A deciduous fern native to eastern North America. It is recognized for its semi-evergreen foliage that remains green throughout the winter in milder climates. Marginal woodfern features upright fronds with lance-shaped, leathery leaflets that taper at both ends, creating a textured and robust appearance in shaded woodland environments.
Plant Description
This species presents sturdy fronds that can grow up to 2 feet in height, with a distinctly upright habit. Its lance-shaped leaflets are leathery and dark green, arranged alternately along the stem, giving the fern a dense and full appearance. Marginal woodfern's fronds unfurl in a symmetrical pattern from a central crown, creating a lush and textured foliage that adds a vibrant green hue to shaded woodland gardens and natural landscapes.
Height (ft)
2'
Soil moisture
Moist to slightly dry
Soil types
Loamy, sandy, rocky
Wetland indicator
FACU
Shade tolerance
Partial to Full Shade
Bloom color
Brown spores underneath frond
Bloom period
Late summer to early fall
Drought tolerance
Moderately
Salinity tolerance
None
Range
Found from Newfoundland and Labrador west to Ontario and Minnesota, and south to Florida and Texas.
Kartesz, J.T. 2024. Floristic Synthesis of North America, Version 1.0. Biota of North America Program (BONAP) [website http://bonap.org/]
Additional Information
According to BRIT - Native American Ethnobotany Database, the Cherokee used an infusion of the root to treat rheumatism, an emetic and held in the mouth for toothaches.