Shield Fern
Dryopteris dilatatafam. Dryopteridaceae
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Pl. 568C — Dryopteris dilatata
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IOverview
Overview
Shield Fern (Dryopteris dilatata) is a deciduous fern found across Europe and into Asia, from the British Isles to Iran. It thrives in moist, light to heavy soil with a pH of 5–5.5, making it adaptable but preferring slightly acidic conditions. Native to Albania, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, and other regions, this fern is known for its edible leaves and roots, which can be consumed raw or cooked. One distinctive feature of the Shield Fern is its broad, shield-shaped leaflets that give it its common name. Its hardiness ranges from 4 to 8, allowing it to survive in various climates within its native range.
Quick answers
What is Shield Fern?
Shield Fern (Dryopteris dilatata) is a deciduous fern found across Europe and into Asia, from the British Isles to Iran. It thrives in moist, light to heavy soil with a pH of 5–5.5, making it adaptable but preferring slightly acidic conditions.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Shield Fern thrives in moist conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH of 5 to 5.5. It is hardy in temperate regions from USDA zones 4 to 8. This fern requires partial shade to full shade for optimal growth. For propagation, divide the rhizomes in spring or autumn. Harvest edible parts—leaves and roots—from mature plants after the fern has established itself.
Light
3/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Mature size
1.2 m tall
Soil pH
5–5.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Shield Fern for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Shield Fern in a well-prepared soil mix for a successful beginner experience.
- 1
What you'll need
A shield fern plant, potting soil, and a container with drainage holes.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or early fall when the weather is mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining potting mix with a pH of 5-5.5, ensuring the container has adequate drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant shield ferns directly into the prepared soil in their final location or grow them in containers until they are established.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist and place the plant in a partially shaded area to avoid direct sunlight.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry periods, and provide partial shade. Fertilize sparingly with a balanced fertilizer once a year.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead or yellowing leaves to maintain the plant's health and appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, using incorrect soil pH, and neglecting regular watering are common pitfalls.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesRoot
Edible uses: The Shield Fern's leaves and roots are edible. Typically, the young leaves can be eaten raw in salads or cooked as a vegetable. The roots may also be consumed, though less commonly, often prepared through cooking methods.
Other uses:HairtextilesGround cover
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 30 native
Europe19 regions
native (19)AustriaBelarusBelgiumBulgariaDenmarkFinlandFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryIrelandItalyNetherlandsNorwayPolandPortugalRussiaSwitzerlandUnited Kingdom
Asia2 regions
native (2)IranMongolia
Broader regions
native:Altay, Baltic States, Czechoslovakia, Føroyar
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
6 related
See also
6 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Dryopteridaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Dryopteridaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
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