Dryopteris sieboldii - Siebold's Wood Fern

Dryopteris sieboldii - Siebold's Wood Fern by Jo Edwards

Dryopteris sieboldii, commonly known as Siebold’s Wood Fern, is an evergreen fern native to East Asia, including Japan, China, and Korea. Unlike many ferns with delicate, feathery fronds, this species is known for its thick, blue-green fronds. While not widely used in Western herbal medicine, some traditional Asian practices have utilised ferns for their cooling and detoxifying properties. The rhizomes of some Dryopteris species have been used in folk medicine for treating intestinal parasites. In Japanese tradition, ferns symbolise family bonds and resilience, as they grow in shaded, undisturbed places, thriving where other plants may struggle. In European folklore, ferns were believed to have magical properties, including the ability to grant invisibility or guide seekers to hidden treasures. 

Chelsea Physic Garden has been a centre of medicinal plant knowledge for over 350 years. Established in 1673 by the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries of London, it is one of the oldest botanic gardens in Britain. Its living collection includes species from across the globe, many with histories deeply rooted in medicinal and cultural practice. Today, the Garden continues to inspire learning, offering a space for people to connect with nature and explore the essential role plants play in our health, culture, and survival.