Dryopteris affinis ‘Cristata The King’

Golden-scaled Male Fern

(9 customer reviews)

From: £11.95

King of the Male ferns is one of the largest and most accommodating crested ferns it is possible to grow.

When at its best, each leaflet displays a crest or tuft of growth at the end transforming the plant into a graceful yet large specimen that is eye-catchingly imposing in a mixed border or fernery.

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Origin: western & southern Europe and Southern Asia, cultivar of horticultural origin
Genus: Dryopteris
Species / Cultivar: affinis 'Cristata The King'
Common Name: Golden-scaled Male Fern
Synonym: Dryopteris pseudomas 'Cristata The King'

Plant Biography

‘Cristata The King’ is a handsome rosette-forming fern, with large finely divided fronds crested and twisted at the tips. This species thrives in any situation that replicates a woodland environment, adoring moist soil and dappled shade.

An easy going, forgiving fern that can is a pleasing addition to shady border or large pot displays, though it can tolerate more sunny positions if kept very well-watered.

 

Dryopteris affinis 'Cristata The King'
Soil: Moisture Retaining
Soil that drains at a slower rate due to higher organic matter content.
Growth Rate: Medium
Expect to see moderate growth during growing season.
Water Requirement: Medium
Once it is established, this plant is likely to only require watering during drier periods.
Maintenance: Low
Minimal skill or input needed beyond the basics, a very independent plant.
Situation: Part Shade to Full Shade
Can enjoy several hours of direct sunlight, but also happy in full shade.
Eventual Height: 1-1.5m
The plant's ultimate height in typical growing conditions.
Eventual Spread: 0.5-1m
The plant's ultimate spread in typical growing conditions.
Hardiness: Fully Hardy
Will survive unprotected outdoors in most areas of the UK, even in the harshest winters.
Habit: Semi Evergreen
May only remain evergreen in milder winters, or only loose leaves for a short period.

Expert Tip

It makes a great statement mixed with other low ground cover plants in shaded parts of the garden. Due to its ultimate height it's best to be planted in middle the of borders.
Care & Size Guidance

Care & Size Guidance

The Dryopteris affinis is one of the most robust ferns native to the UK.

Fronds remain attached to the plant after withering. A good clean-up in spring will encourage the golden scaled male fern to push new fronds. Considered evergreen in milder areas but classed as semi-evergreen for colder parts of the country.

Strong, healthy plant. This is my second order I’ve had from The Palm centre and couldn’t be happier with the product and packaging. Thank you

Rebecca H

Strong, healthy plant. This is my second order I’ve had from The Palm centre and couldn’t be happier with the product and packaging. Thank you

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9 customer reviews for Dryopteris affinis ‘Cristata The King’

Ive popped this bad boy towards the back of a rather large fern collection and can see already how it will shine bright in time!

James L.

Our fern arrived today, happy as Larry and packaged to insure that he made the shipment safely and in good health. I am so glad that I found this company as I have just started collecting ferns and palm trees!

Susan B.

Plants received promptly and in excellent condition. Extremely pleased with your service. Many thanks.

June Ratcliffe

Helpful service, large, healthy plant at a competitive price. I chose it for its potential size and the form of the leaflets, which is frilly and slightly twisting – quite distinctive next to other ferns.

Mrs P