This evergreen fern is a native of Britain, with soft, green fronds that emerge upright before unfurling and falling open. Try it among other foliage plants at the front of a shady, well-drained, border or beneath deciduous trees. Either cut back the old foliage in early Jan/Feb to allow space for spring bulbs, or leave them in place until April when the new fronds appear.
How to care for Polystichum rigens:
Incorporate lots of well-rotted leaf mould, composted pine needles or garden compost into the planting hole. Remove dead foliage in spring.
Eventual height:
0.6m
Eventual spread:
0.5m
Position:
Full sun / light shade / shade
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost