Dryopteris atrata ‘Shaggy Wood’ is a striking woodland fern with tall, elegant fronds coated in tiny dark hairs. These 3 garden‑ready plug plants establish quickly and provide bold, architectural foliage for much of the year. Perfect for shady borders, woodland gardens and naturalistic planting schemes.
Dryopteris atrata ‘Shaggy Wood’ is an exceptionally handsome fern prized for its tall, robust fronds covered in tiny dark hairs, giving it a distinctive texture and presence. As it matures, it forms an elegant vase‑shaped clump, making it a standout in shaded borders, woodland gardens, moist, sheltered areas, or anywhere you want strong architectural foliage.
This hardy perennial provides interest for much of the year and pairs beautifully with hostas, hellebores, heucheras, and other shade‑loving plants. It’s a reliable choice for gardeners seeking structure, movement, and rich green tones in low‑light areas.
Your order includes 3 × 5cm garden‑ready plug plants, perfect for planting directly into their final spot or potting on to strengthen before placing out. These ferns establish steadily and reward you with long‑lasting, low‑maintenance beauty.
All orders are posted via Royal Mail 48 Tracked in 100% recycled R‑PET protective blister packs — the same eco‑friendly packaging standard used across your shop. When purchasing 2 or more multipacks, your postage is upgraded free to Royal Mail 24 Tracked.
For bespoke or large orders, we can arrange RM24 or Parcelforce24 — simply email for details.
🌿 Key Features & Benefits
- 🌿 Tall, elegant fronds with unique dark “shaggy” hairs
- 🍃 Excellent architectural form for shade gardens
- 🪴 Includes 3 × 5cm garden‑ready plug plants
- 🌱 Thrives in shaded or partially shaded areas
- 💧 Prefers moist, humus‑rich soil
- ♻️ 100% recycled R‑PET packaging
- 🚚 FREE P&P (RM48 Tracked)
- ⚡ Multi‑pack orders upgraded to RM24 Tracked
🌿 Planting & Care
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Position: Partial to full shade
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Soil: Moist, humus‑rich, well‑drained
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Foliage: Semi‑evergreen depending on winter conditions
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Habit: Upright, clumping woodland fern
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Best for: Woodland gardens • Shade borders • Naturalistic planting
🌿 FAQs
Is it fully hardy?
Yes — Dryopteris atrata is reliably hardy in the UK.
Does it stay green all winter?
In mild winters, partially; in colder areas, the old fronds may die back and regrow in spring.
Can it grow in containers?
Yes — use a deep, moisture‑retentive compost mix.