Dryopteris cristata 'The King

'
Cristata The King' is one of the largest and most accommodating crested ferns it is possible to grow. A robust, nearly evergreen fern to 1.2m tall. The young fronds unfurl a golden green with rosettes of erect to arching bipinnate fronds, handsomely crested at the tips of the fronds and pinnae.

When at its best, each leaflet displays a crest or tuft of growth at the end transforming the plant into a graceful yet large specimen that is eye-catchingly imposing in a mixed border or fernery. It will adapt to any growing situation but with a moist soil and semi-shade it will transform into an eye-catching centrepiece.

Add well-rotted leaf mould or garden compost when planting, and mulch annually with the same.

A cultivar of the native male fern, Dryopteris affinis 

Height 120-150 cm
Shade /Part Shade ( Morning sun is fine)
Requires moist, fertile, neutral to acid soil.