The male fern is native to moist woodlands of the northern hemisphere including Illinois where it provides refuge for birds and other small mammals. Yellow-green fiddle-heads emerge in early spring and mature into dark green leathery fronds 2-4 feet long. At maturity each plant can form a clump up to 4 feet high and 3 feet wide.

The male fern requires consistently rich moist, but well-drained soil, full to partial shade, and protection from freezing and drying winds. It is adaptable to clay soil as long as it is not sitting in pooling water and is not preferred by rabbits. Planted as a massed grouping or a specimen plant the male fern provides lushness and elegance to shady spots.