Protected Series:
#4314
LEATHERWOOD FERN
Dryopteris marginalis, commonly known as the Marginal Wood Fern or Leatherwood, is a rugged and refined evergreen fern native to the rocky woodlands of North America. It earns the name "Leatherwood" from its thick, leathery, blue-green fronds that feel substantial to the touch and hold their color remarkably well through the winter. It grows in a very tidy, symmetrical vase-shaped clump, typically reaching about 15 to 18 inches in height. It is a true "anchor" plant for the shade garden, providing year-round structure and a sophisticated, matte finish that doesn't shy away from the cold.
Dryopteris marginalis is a fantastic choice for low-maintenance landscapes because it is exceptionally hardy and adaptable. It thrives in part to full shade and, true to its native habitat, it is perfectly happy in rocky, well-drained, and humus-rich soil. One of its standout features is its impressive drought tolerance once established; it can handle the dry shade found under large canopy trees much better than most other ferns.
The name "marginalis" refers to the sori (spore cases) located along the margins of the leaflets, which can be seen if you flip a frond over. Because it is a "crown-forming" fern, it stays exactly where you plant it and won't creep into other plants' territory.
| PLANT | SIZE | TYPE | GALENA | ADD'L | DIG | SOON |
| DRYOPTERIS MAR LEATHERWOOD | con 1 | 188 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
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To help Dryopteris settle in and thrive, we recommend these standard planting practices: Plant in rich, humus-heavy soil that is moist but well-draining. Dryopteris prefer consistent moisture but require good drainage to prevent crown rot; unlike bog-loving ferns, they will not tolerate long periods of standing water. Mulch with organic matter to keep roots cool and retain moisture.
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