Goldie'S Fern
Dryopteris goldieana
Last reviewed: August 2026
Toxicity unknown
Goldie'S Fern (Dryopteris goldieana) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
24"–48" H × 24"–36" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 24 more states
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 445 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
Find rebates in your areaBrowse plants for this ecoregion
Goldie's fern is a large, elegant native fern with broad, triangular fronds that create a lush woodland appearance. This impressive perennial grows in graceful clumps and thrives in shaded areas with consistent moisture. The fronds die back in winter, leaving attractive brown stems that can be left for winter interest or cut back in spring.
In an HOA neighborhood
Goldie'S Fern is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.
- Fronds turn brown and die back in winter, requiring seasonal cleanup
Wildlife value
While ferns don't produce flowers for pollinators, Goldie's fern provides important habitat and shelter for small wildlife including salamanders, insects, and ground-dwelling creatures. The dense fronds offer nesting material and cover for various woodland species.
Common questions
- How much sun does Goldie'S Fern need?
- Goldie'S Fern grows best in part shade conditions.
- Where is Goldie'S Fern native?
- Goldie'S Fern (Dryopteris goldieana) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 24 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
- Is Goldie'S Fern HOA-friendly?
- Goldie'S Fern is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Goldie'S Fern? 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