Clinton's Woodfern
Dryopteris clintoniana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
CT, DE, IL, IN and 12 more states
Clinton's woodfern is a graceful native fern that forms clumps of arching, deeply cut fronds in shaded areas. It thrives in moist, woodland conditions and dies back to the ground each winter. This fern works well in naturalized shade gardens and as groundcover under trees.
In an HOA neighborhood
Clinton's Woodfern is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare ground
Wildlife value
As a fern, it does not produce flowers or directly attract pollinators, but provides shelter and habitat structure for small woodland creatures and insects.
Common questions
- How much sun does Clinton's Woodfern need?
- Clinton's Woodfern grows best in part shade conditions.
- Where is Clinton's Woodfern native?
- Clinton's Woodfern (Dryopteris clintoniana) is native to CT, DE, IL, IN and 12 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Clinton's Woodfern HOA-friendly?
- Clinton's Woodfern is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Clinton's Woodfern? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz