Tokyo Wood Fern

Dryopteris tokyoensis, the Tokyo wood fern, forms an upright vase of divided green fronds for a shaded planting. This deciduous fern is native to East Asia and suits woodland gardens where the soil stays evenly moist. ## Form and placement Missouri Botanical Garden gives a mature size of about 18–36 inches tall and wide and recommends part shade to full shade; Chicago Botanic Garden describes a three-foot vase-shaped plant for a shade garden. Shelter the fronds from drying winds and allow room for the clump to broaden. Its upright form can anchor a woodland border or stand among lower shade plants. ([Missouri Botanical Garden](https://plantfinder.mobot.org/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?gen=Dryopteris&isprofile=0&taxonid=285987); [Chicago Botanic Garden](https://www.chicagobotanic.org/plant-information/plant-finder/dryopteris-tokyoensis-tokyo-wood-fern)) ## Soil and water Plant in humusy soil rich in organic matter and keep it moderately moist, especially while establishing. A layer of leaf mold or compost helps hold moisture without leaving the crown waterlogged. ([Missouri Botanical Garden](https://plantfinder.mobot.org/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?gen=Dryopteris&isprofile=0&taxonid=285987); [RHS](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/dryopteris/growing-guide)) ## Maintenance Remove tired fronds before new growth unfurls in spring. Water newly planted ferns regularly through dry spells; established plants need less attention where the soil remains moist. ([RHS](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/dryopteris/growing-guide))