What is the male fern? Origin and distribution
The male fern (Dryopteris fern-mas) It is one of the best-known and most traditional species in the world of ferns. It is a perennial plant of great ornamental and medicinal value. It is native to temperate regions of the northern hemisphere, covering a wide distribution in Europe, Asia and North America. It prefers shady and humid habitats, being especially common in deciduous forests, undergrowth and humid slopes, although it can also be found in gardens and parks due to its resistance and beauty.
The name of "male" It is given to differentiate it from the female fern (Lastrea fern-female), with a more delicate appearance and thinner leaves. Dryopteris fern-mas It is appreciated for its robustness and its ability to adapt to different conditions, which makes it easy to grow and maintain both outdoors and indoors.
Botanical characteristics of the male fern
The male fern is distinguished by the structure and morphology of its fronds (leaves), which can reach up to 1 meter in height, with exuberant development in optimal conditions. The fronds are bipinnate., that is, they divide twice, giving them a feathery, elegant appearance. Each frond typically has 20 to 35 pairs of pinnae (primary segments), and the pinnules (small secondary segments) maintain lobed edges and a slightly blunt shape.
At birth, the leaves appear rolled into a cane or crook shape, protected by the brown scales characteristic of the species. These young shoots are called “croziers” or fiddleheads. The underside of the leaves develops reniform sori (groups of sporangia), which are usually arranged in two parallel rows along the rachis. The male fern does not produce flowers or fruits, reproducing exclusively by spores, which is typical in pteridophytes.
El rhizome It is thick and round, clearly distinguishable from the root. Fronds emerge from it each season, forming a compact and dense crown.
Among the common names given to this fern are: dentabron, dentabron, lafaleita and standard-bearer.
Chemical composition and active ingredients
El male fern It contains a complex and varied chemical composition that justifies a good part of its medicinal and industrial uses. In the rhizomes Chemical compounds have been identified such as:
- Quinoids (albaspidin BB, deaspidin, flavaspidic BB, filixic acid)
- Benzene components (aspidin, aspidinol, filicin, filicylic acid)
- Organic acids and pigments
- Resin and essential oils
- Tannins
- A bitter principle and filixolin glycoside
- Starch and sugar
In the fronds and aerial parts of the plant there are different Flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol, astragalin, procyanidins) and phenylic acids, which enhance its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. These compounds make the fern a plant of interest in natural medicine and traditional phytotherapy.
Varieties and related species
The gender dryopteris It brings together more than 300 species, many of them cultivated and valued both for their appearance and for their different uses. male fern (Dryopteris fern-mas) It is the most representative species, but there are other variants and closely related species, such as:
- Dryopteris carthusiana: known as the Carthusian fern, with delicate fronds.
- Dryopteris affinis: scaly male fern, notable for a dark spot on its leaflets and central vein.
- Dryopteris dilatata: with light green fronds and semi-deciduous foliage.
- Lastrea fern-female: the well-known female fern, with thinner leaves and an ethereal appearance.
Knowing these varieties allows accurately identify the male fern, differentiating it from other species of ferns similar in appearance but with different ecological, ornamental and therapeutic attributes.
Male fern care: location, light, and watering
One of the main attractions of the male fern is its ease of cultivation and maintenance, both in outdoor gardens and in pots inside the home. To ensure optimal growth and to maintain its lushness throughout the year, it's important to keep the following points in mind:
location and light
The male fern prefers semi-shade, both outdoors and indoors. It is essential to avoid direct sunlight, which can cause leaf burn and dry out the plant. Ideally, place it in a space where it receives indirect natural light, such as near a window but protected by curtains or in corners away from direct sunlight.
In humid, temperate climates, the male fern can adapt perfectly to the outdoors, as long as it is protected from strong winds and severe frost. During hotter or windier periods, it's a good idea to install natural windbreaks, such as other larger plants, to protect its fronds.
Irrigation and humidity
The substrate must always remain moist, but without flooding it to avoid the risk of root rot. Watering should be adjusted according to the season: more frequently in summer and much more moderately in winter. On hot days or in dry environments, it is advisable to spray the leaves with water to maintain the relative humidity the fern requires.
To avoid excess water, it is essential to have a loose, well-drained substrateIn pots, make sure the container has enough drainage holes and that the bottom is covered with a layer of gravel or porous material.
Practical advice: If you notice yellow leaves, it's likely that overwatering or a lack of light is harming the plant. Curled and dry leaves indicate a lack of moisture, while leaf drop can be due to sudden changes in the environment.
Temperature and protection
The male fern is hardy but prefers mild temperatures, avoiding prolonged exposure below 10°C. If you live in a cold area, it's advisable to protect the base of the fern with a layer of dry leaves or mulch during the winter to preserve the health of the rhizomes.
Fertilization
For vigorous growth, provides organic fertilizer or specific for ferns in spring, summer, and fall. Fertilize once a month during the active growth period. It's best to avoid fertilizers in winter, when the plant is dormant.
Aesthetic care and maintenance
Remove regularly the withered fronds or dry to keep the plant healthy and encourage new leaves to sprout. It's also advisable to rotate the pot occasionally to ensure all parts of the plant receive light evenly and prevent leaning growth.
Cultivation and multiplication of the male fern
The male fern can be propagated either by spores or through rhizome division in adult specimens. Division is the simplest and quickest way to obtain new plants with identical characteristics to the original. It is advisable to perform this operation during spring or autumn, taking advantage of the peak vegetative activity.
Steps to divide the rhizome:
- Dig up the fern carefully, taking care not to damage the roots.
- Using a clean, sharp knife, separate the rhizome pieces, making sure each fragment has at least one sprout.
- Plant the new rhizomes in moist, fertile soil and keep them protected from direct sunlight.
- Water thoroughly after planting and maintain constant moisture for the first few weeks.
Main uses of the male fern
The male fern is appreciated both in Phytotherapy as in ornamentation and in industry.
Medicinal and phytotherapeutic applications
In traditional medicine, the male fern has been used mainly for its anthelmintic properties, that is, as a remedy for the elimination of intestinal parasites such as tapeworms, pinworms and other worms. In addition, it is attributed with capacities to accelerate wound healing (using its decoction to wash and disinfect the skin), as well as relieve rheumatism, cramps and gout by topical preparations of crushed leaves or fronds.
Preparation of decoction: Boil between 30 and 60 grams of rhizome in one liter of water and reduce it by half through evaporation. It is recommended to drink one or two cups a day, always under the supervision of a healthcare professional, due to the potential toxicity of some active ingredients if consumed in excess.
Revitalizing syrup: 15 grams of shoots and 30 grams of roots are mixed with sugar in water to prepare a syrup that provides vitality and strengthens the body.
For external use, the decoction can be applied to clean wounds, and the male fern cream is used to soothe muscle and joint pain.
Other uses and precautions
The plant also finds applications in the paint industry and as a natural colorant, thanks to the presence of pigments in its composition. It is also popular as an element, providing freshness, volume, and a sense of lush nature to patios, terraces, and living rooms. Furthermore, it can be considered a symbol of good luck in some cultures.
Precautions: Male fern remedies should be avoided by pregnant or breastfeeding women. If you have any questions about dosage or possible interactions, always consult a doctor. qualified specialist.
Male fern as an ornamental plant and energy element
In addition to its medicinal value, the male fern continues to be one of the most appreciated plants by gardening enthusiasts and eco-friendly decor. Their lush, deep green appearance provides freshness and vitality to the environment, and according to some cultural traditions, ferns are symbols of luck and prosperity, especially valued in the Feng Shui to attract positive energy to the home.
Indoors, it is ideal for creating plant arrangements in large or hanging pots. It requires bright locations but without direct light, and regular watering to maintain moisture in the substrate. It is also considered pet friendly, that is, it does not normally pose a risk to pets, although caution is always recommended and any ornamental plant should be kept out of the reach of animals and small children.
The male fern, with its rich botanical history, magnificent appearance, and versatile uses, continues to fascinate botanists, gardeners, and nature lovers. Whether indoors or outdoors, this species represents a healthy, resilient, and aesthetically pleasing option for bringing greenery, health, and positive energy to any setting.
