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
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.
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.