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Robust Male Fern

Dryopteris filix-mas undulata 'Robusta'

Nature Hills Nursery
  • Undulata Fronds with Wavy Edges Set this Male Fern Apart from Standard Varieties
  • Cold Hardy: Thrives in Zones 4-9
  • Grows 3-4 ft Tall, 2-3 ft Wide
  • Top Pick for Mass Planting in Cottage Gardens
  • Moderate-Growing in Full Shade
$3426
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Plant Characteristics Cold hardy, Deer-resistant, Wet Soils, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Container Friendly
Sunlight Partial shade
Height 3-4 ft
Width 2-3 ft
Watering Needs Moderate
Preferred Soil Chalky, Peaty
Growth Rate Moderate
Growth Habit Bushy, Spreading
Blooms In Spring
Foliage Color Green
Suitable Space Outdoors
Plant Name Fern
Botanical Name Dryopteris filix-mas undulata 'Robusta'
Species filix-mas undulata
Cultivar Robusta
Class Polypodiopsida
Does Not Ship To AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water my Robust Male Fern?
  • Water Robust Male Ferns regularly to maintain consistently moist soil, as they love wet sites and high moisture. During dry periods, water deeply 2-3 times per week. Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 2 inches down - water when it feels dry at that depth.

Is the Robust Male Fern a fast-growing or slow-growing plant?
  • The Robust Male Fern is a fast-growing perennial that quickly fills shade areas with lush foliage. You'll enjoy watching the fiddleheads rapidly unfurl into tall, graceful fronds each spring. Plant in moist, shaded spots for best growth results, available at naturehills.com.

What size container will my Robust Male Fern arrive in?
  • Robust Male Ferns typically arrive in 1-gallon containers with established root systems. The container size ensures the plant can establish quickly in your shade garden. Plant immediately upon arrival or keep watered until you can transplant to your prepared woodland location.

How is the fern packaged for shipping and will it arrive healthy?
  • Ferns ship as bare root or potted plants depending on season and availability. The hardy Robust Male Fern tolerates shipping stress well due to its natural resilience. Plant immediately upon arrival and keep soil consistently moist for best establishment.

What are the most common diseases that affect Robust Male Ferns?
  • Robust Male Ferns are generally disease-resistant, but can develop crown rot in poorly draining soils and leaf spot in humid conditions. Their preference for moist, well-draining sites helps prevent most fungal issues. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to keep your fern healthy - shop quality specimens at naturehills.com.

Does the Robust Male Fern require fertilizing and if so, how often?
  • Robust Male Ferns typically don't need fertilizing due to their low maintenance nature. A light application of compost or balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring can boost growth in poor soils. Avoid over-fertilizing, as these woodland natives prefer natural conditions.

What are signs that my Robust Male Fern is stressed or unhealthy?
  • Browning or yellowing fronds, stunted growth, and wilting despite adequate moisture indicate stress in Robust Male Ferns. Poor drainage, too much sun exposure, or extremely dry conditions are common culprits. Check soil moisture and move to shadier location if needed.
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