Southern Woodfern
Dryopteris ludoviciana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AL, AR, FL, GA and 6 more states
Southern woodfern is an attractive evergreen fern that forms neat clumps of arching, deeply divided fronds. It thrives in partial shade and provides year-round structure to shaded garden areas with its graceful, lacy appearance.
In an HOA neighborhood
Southern 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 small wildlife and birds. While it doesn't attract pollinators directly, it supports the ecosystem by offering habitat for beneficial insects.
Common questions
- How much sun does Southern Woodfern need?
- Southern Woodfern grows best in part shade conditions.
- Where is Southern Woodfern native?
- Southern Woodfern (Dryopteris ludoviciana) is native to AL, AR, FL, GA and 6 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Southern Woodfern HOA-friendly?
- Southern 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 Southern 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