Dryopteris marginalis

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Marginal Woodfern (Dryopteris marginalis)
Wood-fern Family

Marginal Woodfern is an evergreen fern native to rocky woodlands and shaded slopes throughout eastern North America. It forms tidy, vase-shaped clumps and tapered, blue-green fronds that remain attractive year-round. The species is named for the placement of its sori (spore clusters), which line the margins of the pinnules on the underside of the frond. It is highly tolerant of dry shade once established and is ideal for woodland gardens, shaded borders, or rocky outcrops where other ferns may struggle. It does not spread aggressively but will gradually increase in size, adding structure and evergreen texture to shaded plantings.Though ferns do not produce nectar, they contribute ecological value as cover and shelter for ground-nesting insects, amphibians, and small wildlife. Companion plants include Plantain-leaf Sedge, American Alumroot, Wild Ginger, and Solomon's Seal.