May 8, 2026
It might be the gracefully cascading fronds that call for a closer look or their soft, delicate texture inviting you to stop for a gentle touch. Either way, this spectacular grouping of perennial wood ferns ranging in color from lime to medium green may very well be one of the loveliest we ever seen.
While just “babies”, they were a gift from Master Gardener, Fern Brown. How appropriate that she shared them with us over three years ago. We lovingly refer to this area of the Edible Landscape as our “Fern Bed”.
Wood ferns have an attractive arching style that thrives in partial to full shade. The location we chose receives hints of dappled sunlight throughout the day. It can grow in soil types from sandy to clay to loamy rich organic matter. It is a deciduous fern that dies back in the winter.
Over the past month, we’ve been mesmerized by the full, lush green fronds with their vase-shaped appearance. Current size is about 2 ½ feet in height and around 3 feet in width.
If you happen to be in the neighborhood, please stop by the Raincatcher’s Garden of Midway Hills and pause for a moment to experience the beauty of a quiet and peaceful place that almost feels as if you are in a woodland-type environment. Let our beautiful “fern bed” refresh your spirit!
Linda Alexander, Dallas County Master Gardener Class of 2008
Native Plant Society-Wood Ferns
