Also known as Common Fern · Common Oak Fern · Northern Oak Fern
Oak Fern (Gymnocarpium dryopteris) is a delicate, deciduous fern with triangular fronds that thrives in cool, moist, shady woodland environments.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Shade
25% intensity
Prefers partial to full shade. Avoid direct sunlight.
Consistently Moist
75% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged.
Moist, well-drained, acidic to neutral, humus-rich
50% intensity
Cool to Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in cool to moderate temperatures, typically between 15-24°C.
Low Feed
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring with balanced organic fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Oak Fern thrives in consistently moist soil. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, ensuring the soil never completely dries out. Avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Aim for even moisture levels to mimic its natural woodland habitat for optimal growth.
Pruning is generally minimal for Oak Fern. Remove any dead, damaged, or discolored fronds at the base of the plant as needed. This helps maintain a tidy appearance and prevents the spread of potential diseases.
Early spring is the ideal time for any necessary clean-up.
Oak Fern can be propagated by division or by spores. Division is best done in early spring or fall when the plant is dormant. Carefully separate rhizome clumps with roots and shoots.
Spore propagation is more challenging and requires specific conditions and patience, mimicking its natural environment.
Repotting is rarely necessary for established Oak Ferns grown in the ground. If grown in a container, repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Use a well-draining, humus-rich potting mix.
Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one to allow for root growth without excessive space.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Oak Fern (Gymnocarpium dryopteris)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Cystopteridaceae |
| Genus | Gymnocarpium |
| Species | Gymnocarpium dryopteris |
Similar in genus Gymnocarpium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
