Marginal Fern
Dryopteris marginalis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 27 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Marginal fern is an elegant evergreen fern with deep green, leathery fronds that persist through winter. It forms neat clumps in partial shade and is extremely hardy. The fronds have a refined appearance with brown spores visible along the leaf margins.
In an HOA neighborhood
Marginal Fern 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 small wildlife and birds. As a non-flowering plant, it does not attract pollinators but offers habitat value in shaded woodland settings.
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.
Does Marginal Fern fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.