The mountain male fern, or dwarf male fern, is named for the Oreades or the mountain nymphs. This fern is a native of the talus slopes of the mountains of Europe and Western Asia, with a range from Norway to Spain, and east to Pakistan. Clearly this is a tough fern that is superbly adapted to its harsh environment and one that will perform well in typical garden environments.

This fern grows to about 3 feet in height and 2 feet in width. The mountain male fern requires part shade and well-drained loamy soil. Like most ferns it is well-suited to shady borders, woodland gardens, and as an understory planting.