Plant Description
The Marginal Woodfern (Dryopteris marginalis), also known as Marginal Shield Fern, is a native evergreen fern in New Jersey, celebrated for its striking dark green, leathery fronds. These twice-pinnate fronds grow 1 to 3 feet in height and up to 10 inches wide, forming elegant, vase-shaped clumps. In spring, golden-brown, furry fiddleheads emerge, unfurling into graceful fronds that remain vibrant year-round. This fern thrives in shady, wooded areas with well-drained, rocky soils and is an excellent choice for woodland gardens or shaded borders. Its deer resistance and non-colonizing growth habit appeal to gardeners seeking low-maintenance plants (Jersey-Friendly Yards).
Even during snowy winters, the Marginal Woodfern’s blue-green fronds often peek through the snow, offering a striking contrast to the winter landscape. Its adaptability and evergreen foliage make it a valuable addition to any garden.
