Dryopteris spinulosa (Tooth Wood Fern) Unity Grown

Dryopteris carthusiana, previously referred to as Dryopteris spinulosa and also referred to as tooth wood fern or spinulose wood fern, is a low-maintenance, semi-evergreen native fern found growing naturally in wet woods in full or part shade to about 2-3' tall and wide. Noted for its showy fronds, the leaves are more intricate and lacy than many other ferns providing elegance and texture to the woodland garden.

Tooth wood fern prefers medium moist, well drained soils, and especially soils with some loam, humus, and acidity. Dryopteris spinulosa benefits from some wind protection, as its lacy fronds are susceptible to tearing, but is resistant to heavy shade, rabbit damage, and some deer damage. Ferns are an important host plant for a number of butterfly and moth larvae, and can act as important seasonal shelter for small mammals and amphibians.