Dryopteris atrata
Genus: Dryopteris
Species: atrata
Variety: -
Plant Type: Semi-Evergreen Fern
The 'Shaggy Shield Fern' is from Nepal and India, and will add an oriental feel to any garden. The fronds have long midribs that resemble elephants trunks as they unfurl to reveal large, dark green leaves. It grows into a strong, upright architectural shape reminiscent of a Cycad, hense its synonym D.cycadina. Whilst it is technically a deciduous fern, it tends to keep its foliage in a mild winter.