Dryopteris atrata — Shield Fern, Hardy Evergreen, 1L Pot (Set of 6)

Dryopteris atrata — A hardy herbaceous perennial. Supplied as an established specimen in a 1L pot, grown peat-free at our Yorkshire nursery and ready to plant out.

At a glance

• Type: Evergreen to Semi-Evergreen Perennial Fern
• Position: Partial Shade to Full Shade
• Supplied as: Single plant in a 1L pot

The detail

Bring elegant, lush greenery to your shaded borders and woodland areas with this collection of six Dryopteris atrata Shield Ferns. Renowned for its striking, glossy dark green fronds adorned with distinctive dark brown to black scales along the stems, this fern adds a sophisticated, architectural quality to any garden setting. Each plant is supplied as an established 1Ltr root-ball, ready to plant straight into your garden or containers.

Dryopteris atrata is a wonderfully low-maintenance fern that thrives in sheltered, shady spots where many other plants struggle. Once established, it forms a graceful, shuttlecock-shaped clump of arching fronds that provides year-round structure and interest. It is fully hardy and well-suited to the UK climate, making it an excellent choice for woodland gardens, shaded borders, underplanting beneath trees and shrubs, or even large patio containers.

Why ours

Grown by us in Yorkshire, in peat-free compost, shipped in plastic-free packaging. Every plant arrives strong, well-rooted and ready to thrive — not weeks of waiting before it gets going. Each order includes access to our free care app with planting and seasonal care reminders.

How to grow

Frequently asked

Will it come back next year?

Yes — Shield is a hardy herbaceous perennial. It will die back over winter and re-emerge in spring, returning bigger and stronger each year.

What size pot does it arrive in?

Supplied as a single specimen in 1L pot, well-rooted and ready to plant out or pot on.