Polystichum aculeatum
hard shield fern
The long and lustrous fronds of this evergreen native fern form a distinctive shuttlecock shape, which is ideal for adding year-round structural interest to shady borders or woodland settings.
Polystichum aculeatum is also invaluable for underplanting deciduous trees, and it looks great when teamed with larger leaved hostas, foxgloves or brunneras.
Polystichum aculeatum is also invaluable for underplanting deciduous trees, and it looks great when teamed with larger leaved hostas, foxgloves or brunneras.
How to care for Polystichum aculeatum:
Plant Polystichum in partial or full shade where the soil stays cool and evenly moist, such as in woodland-style borders, or along a shaded path. Work plenty of leaf mould, composted pine needles, or garden compost into the planting hole to create a rich, humus-filled soil the fern will root into easily. Keep the plant well watered while it establishes, especially in warm spells, and use a balanced slow-release fertiliser in spring to support steady frond growth.
Despite the plant being evergreen, you can cut back old foliage in early January to make space for spring bulbs, or leave it in place for winter cover and remove it in April as the fresh fronds start to unfurl. Once settled, this fern is easy to maintain and copes well with long-term shade and damp soil.
Despite the plant being evergreen, you can cut back old foliage in early January to make space for spring bulbs, or leave it in place for winter cover and remove it in April as the fresh fronds start to unfurl. Once settled, this fern is easy to maintain and copes well with long-term shade and damp soil.
Eventual height:
0.6m
Eventual spread:
0.9m
Position:
Light shade / shade
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
2 litre pot
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9cm pot
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3 × 9cm pots
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3 × 2 litre pots
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