Dryopteris wallichiana 'Jurassic Gold'
Overview
Uses: Shade gardens, woodland borders, foundation plantings, containers, underplanting beneath trees and large shrubs.
Benefits: Striking golden-orange spring fronds brighten shaded areas before maturing to rich green, with a dense clumping habit, strong deer resistance, and reliable performance across a wide range of shade conditions.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 5–9
Sun: Partial Sun/Shade to Heavy Shade
Life Cycle: Hardy Perennial
Growth Habit: Clumping, Arching — upright fronds relax outward as they mature.
Foliage Color: Gold to Orange in spring, maturing to Green
Mature Height: 20–24 inches
Mature Width: 18–24 inches
Growth Rate: Moderate
Summary
Jurassic Gold Wood Fern is the shade plant that earns its spot by doing what most shade perennials cannot — delivering bold, warm color right when the garden needs it most. New fronds unfurl in spring in shades of golden orange and coppery gold, giving beds, borders, and containers an instant lift before the rest of the garden has fully woken up.
As the season progresses, those vivid spring tones settle into a lush, deep green that holds well through summer and into fall. The arching fronds form a dense, shuttlecock-shaped clump that adds structure and texture to plantings without looking rigid or overpowering. It pairs naturally with hostas, heucheras, astilbe, and other shade-loving perennials, filling the mid-height layer with a refined, finished look.
Discovered near England's Jurassic Coast, this selection of Wallich's Wood Fern handles a wide range of shade conditions — from bright, filtered light to deep shade beneath mature tree canopies. Once established, it tolerates moderate drought better than many ferns, though it looks its best with consistent moisture. Deer tend to leave it alone, making it a practical choice for shaded landscapes where browsing pressure limits plant options.
Care
Jurassic Gold Wood Fern Care
Plant in partial shade to full shade. Bright, indirect light is ideal, but deep shade is well tolerated. Avoid prolonged direct afternoon sun, which can scorch the fronds.
Soil should be humus-rich, consistently moist, and well-drained. Amending with compost or leaf mold at planting improves moisture retention and mimics the woodland floor conditions this fern prefers. Neutral to slightly acidic soil is best.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, water during extended dry spells to keep the foliage looking fresh. This fern tolerates moderate drought better than many, but consistent moisture produces the best frond quality.
A light spring application of slow release fertilizer is optional and beneficial but not required. Remove tattered or winter-damaged fronds in late winter or very early spring before the new flush of golden growth emerges.
For containers, use a moisture-retentive but well-drained potting mix and do not allow the soil to dry out completely. Container-grown ferns typically need more frequent watering during summer heat. A layer of mulch on the soil surface helps retain moisture. Plants hardy in the ground may require winter protection when grown in containers in colder zones.
Size
What Size is the Jurassic Gold Wood Fern for Sale Online?
Our Jurassic Gold Wood Fern ships in a greenhouse-grade grow pot and is appropriately sized for its container at the time of shipment. If you have specific sizing or planting questions, please contact us.
How Large Does Jurassic Gold Wood Fern Grow?
At maturity, Jurassic Gold Wood Fern forms a dense, arching clump roughly 20 to 24 inches tall and 18 to 24 inches wide. Its upright-then-relaxing habit makes it easy to tuck into shaded beds, borders, and patio containers without crowding neighboring plants.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
This plant is most commonly sold as Jurassic Gold Wood Fern or Jurassic Gold Fern. The species, Dryopteris wallichiana, is known as Wallich's Wood Fern or Alpine Wood Fern. The cultivar is officially registered as 'Hollasic.'
Is Jurassic Gold Wood Fern deer resistant?
Yes, it is generally considered deer resistant. Ferns as a group are among the more reliably deer-resistant perennials, and this cultivar is no exception. It is a strong choice for shaded plantings where browsing is a recurring problem. For more options, explore our deer-resistant perennials and grasses collection.
Does Jurassic Gold Wood Fern stay evergreen?
It is semi-evergreen in milder climates (roughly Zone 7 and warmer), where fronds may persist through winter in sheltered spots. In colder zones, the foliage dies back after hard frost and returns from the crown in spring. Either way, the golden spring flush is the main ornamental event.
Where does Jurassic Gold Wood Fern fit best in the garden?
It excels in shaded borders, woodland-style plantings, foundation beds on north-facing walls, and mixed containers where its bright spring color stands out against darker foliage. It pairs especially well with hostas, heucheras, and spring-blooming bulbs. Browse more shade-friendly options in our perennials collection or find container ideas in our patio plants collection.
