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Dryopteris dilatata
Shield fern
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The Dryopteris dilatata plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Dryopteridaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Shield fern. Some home gardeners know the variety as D. aristata. D. austriaca. Lastrea dilatata. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses
Latin Name: Dryopteris dilatata
Common Name: Shield fern
Family: Dryopteridaceae
Author: (Hoffm.)A.Gray.
Known Hazards: Although we have found no reports for this species, a number of ferns contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable[200].
The fresh plant contains thiaminase, an enzyme that robs the body of its vitamin B complex. In small quantities this enzyme will do no harm to people eating an adequate diet that is rich in vitamin B, though large quantities can cause severe health problems. The enzyme is destroyed by heat or thorough drying, so cooking the plant will remove the thiaminase[172]. However, there have been reports for other species of ferns suggesting that even cooked fronds can have a long term harmful effect. Some caution is therefore advised.
Mature Height: 1.2 Mature Width: 0.5
Habitat: Woods, hedgebanks, wet heaths, shady rock ledges and crevices[17].
General Uses: An infusion of the fronds is used as a hair rinse and to treat dandruff[172, 213].
The leaves can be used as a packing material for fruit etc[172].
Plants can be grown as a ground cover when spaced about 60cm apart each way[208].
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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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