Dryopteris affnis 'Cristata The King'

(H5)  Dryopteris affnis 'Cristata The King'. Other Common names: King Of Male Ferns, King Of The Ferns, King Of British Ferns

'Cristata The King' is one of the largest and most accommodating crested ferns it is possible to grow. A robust, nearly evergreen fern to 1.2m tall. The young fronds unfurl a golden green with rosettes of erect to arching bipinnate fronds, handsomely crested at the tips of the fronds and pinnae.

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. It will adapt to any growing situation but with a moist soil and semi-shade it will transform into an eye-catching centrepiece.

Requires moist, fertile, neutral to acid soil. Add well-rotted leaf mould or garden compost when planting, and mulch annually with the same.

A cultivar of the native male fern, Dryopteris affinis, found in woodlands in wetter parts of Britain.

The Basics

Ideal soil

Acidic soil, good organic content, pH 4.5-6.0. Inkarho range of rhododendrons will tolerate soils up to pH7.5

Sun or Shade

Light dappled shade is best for most varieties.

Shelter

Refer to hardiness rating. Give young plants protection.

Site Selection

Avoid close to trees, roots, invasive weeds, walls, hot patios, dry banks and waterlogged soils. Do not use weed matting or stone mulch.

Plant spacing

Use the height shown in 10 years as a guide to the distance between each plant. Allow room for plant to fill out. If planting closer for instant impact, be prepared to move plants after a few years.

Compost

• 3 litre pot, dig in 10-20 litres of ericaceous compost.
• 7.5 litre pot, dig in 20-30 litres of ericaceous compost.
• 70-80cm specimen, dig in 60 litres of ericaceous compost.
• 100-120cm specimen, dig in 120 litres of ericaceous compost.

Planting depth

Plant high in the ground, with the top of the rootball visible.

Feeding

Slow-release ericaceous feed recommended in March and straight after flowering.

Mulch

Recommended every few years.

Water

The key ingredient! Keep moist all season, especially the critical time at end of June for flower bud initiation. Tap water is better than no water. Heavy dose at least once per week in dry weather.

Drainage

Ensure good drainage in winter, especially with yellow flowering varieties. Avoid waterlogged sites.

Pruning

Rhododendrons and Camellias: Not normally required. Tidy wayward shoots after flowering.

Evergreen azaleas and Bloombux can be clipped into a low hedge.

Magnolias and Acers: Formative pruning when young to shape into a tree or bush.

Deadheading

Remove old flower-heads, particularly on young or weak plants.

For further advice see here

Size Guide

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