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Geranium_gem's Garden

Fern - Soft shield fern

Genus: Polystichum.

Species: Polystichum setiferum.

Polystichum setiferum (Soft shield fern).

Got from Crocus 2011.

Position: full or partial shade
Soil: fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil
Rate of growth: average
Hardiness: fully hardy

The large, evergreen fern is a native of Britain, with soft, dark green fronds that emerge upright before unfurling and falling softly 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 January to allow space for spring bulbs, or leave them in place until April when the new fronds appear.

Garden care: Incorporate lots of well-rotted leaf mould, composted pine needles or garden compost into the planting hole.Remove dead foliage in spring.

Photos of this plant

  • P1040142