Goldie's Woodfern
Dryopteris goldiana
Last reviewed: July 2026
Goldie's Woodfern (Dryopteris goldiana) is a large deciduous fern native to northeastern North America. This woodland species thrives in partial shade to full shade with consistent moisture.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
24"–48" H × 18"–36" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 28 more states
Goldie's woodfern is a large, elegant native fern that creates dramatic architectural presence in shaded areas. Its tall, broad fronds remain green through winter, providing year-round structure and texture to woodland gardens.
Growing Goldie's Woodfern
Grow Goldie's Woodfern in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 24 to 48 inches tall and spread 18 to 36 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Goldie's Woodfern is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.
Wildlife value
This fern provides shelter and nesting material for birds and small wildlife. The dense fronds offer cover for beneficial insects during winter months.
Common questions
- Where is Goldie's Woodfern naturally found?
- Dryopteris goldiana is native to eastern North America, ranging from southeastern Canada south to the Appalachian Mountains, including New York and surrounding northeastern states.
- What growing conditions does Goldie's Woodfern prefer?
- This large woodland fern grows best in partial shade to full shade with consistently moist, well-draining soil. It tolerates some morning sun but performs poorly in hot, dry conditions.
- How large does Goldie's Woodfern get?
- Goldie's Woodfern is one of the largest native ferns in North America, typically reaching 3-4 feet tall and wide, with some specimens growing up to 5 feet under ideal conditions.
- Does Goldie's Woodfern produce flowers?
- Like all ferns, Dryopteris goldiana does not produce flowers or seeds. Instead, it reproduces through spores produced on the undersides of fertile fronds.
- Is Goldie's Woodfern HOA-friendly?
- Goldie'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 Goldie'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