Wasowski, Sally and Andy
Dryopteris ludoviciana (Kunze) Small
Southern woodfern, Florida shieldfern
Dryopteridaceae (Wood Indies-Almond Family)
A good groundcover
fern for Southeastern shade gardens with oppressively hot summers, high humidity, and heavy, saturated soils, this
fern can grow to 4 feet high and as wide.
Image Gallery:
2 photo(s) available
Plant Characteristics
Duration: Perennial Habit: Fern Flower:
Fruit: Size Class: 3-6 ft.
Bloom Information
Bloom Color: Not Applicable
Bloom Notes: Not a flowering plant. Reproduces by spores.
Distribution
USA: AL , AR , FL , GA , LA , MS , NC , SC , TX
Native Distribution: Native to Zone 8
Native Habitat: Moist, humid woodlands of the Southeastern coastal plain
USDA Native Status: L48(N) Growing Conditions
Water Use: Medium , High
Light Requirement: Part Shade , Shade
Soil Moisture: Wet , Moist
Soil pH: Acidic (pH<6.8)
Heat Tolerant: yes
Soil Description: Heavy, wet soils
Conditions Comments: Thrives in the high heat of the Southeast, as long as moisture is adequate. Though
native to Zone 8, is hardy from Zones 6 to 10.
Benefit
Use Ornamental: Good groundcover foliage for shade in the hot Southeast
Interesting Foliage: yes
Last Update: 2009-02-10
