Dryopteris affinis 'Cristata'

syn. Dryopteris The King

Eventual height & spread

Dryopteris affinis 'Cristata'

syn. Dryopteris The King

  • 9cm pot
  • £5.99 £9.99
  • In stock (shipped within 3-5 working days)
  • 3 × 9cm pots
  • £13.20 £22.00 £4.40 each
  • In stock (shipped within 3-5 working days)
  • 2 litre pot
  • £11.39 £18.99
  • In stock (shipped within 3-5 working days)
  • 3 × 2 litre pots
  • £26.99 £44.99 £9.00 each
  • In stock (shipped within 3-5 working days)
Delivery options
  • Standard £5.99
  • Named Day £10.99
  • Position: partial shade
  • Soil: moderately fertile, moist, humus-rich soil
  • Rate of growth: slow
  • Hardiness: fully hardy


A cultivar of the native male fern, Dryopteris affinis, which is found in woodlands in wetter parts of Britain, this is a handsome, semi-evergreen fern that keeps its leaves almost all year round. The young fronds unfurl a golden green and the plant retains a fresh, bright appearance throughout the summer. Try it in a moist shady border with other woodland plants.


  • Garden care:
    Plant in moist, well-drained soil in partial to full shade. <> thrives in humus-rich conditions, so mix plenty of well-rotted leaf mould, composted pine needles, or garden compost into the planting hole.

    Water regularly during dry spells, especially in the first year while the roots establish. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as ferns prefer consistent moisture. In autumn and winter, remove any dead or damaged fronds to keep the plant looking tidy and to allow space for fresh growth in spring.

    Mulching with organic matter in spring helps retain moisture and adds nutrients, supporting healthy, lush fronds year after year.
  • Goes well with