Polystichum setiferum (Soft-Shield Fern)


Botanical Information

FamilyDryopteridaceae
GenusPolystichum
Speciessetiferum
SynonymsPolystichum setiferum angulare, Polystichum setiferum bulbosum
CategoryPerennials
OriginNative to Southwestern Europe.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone1a - 6a
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone0a - 5b
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH7
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-51 - (-21)
Temperature (°F)-60 - (-5)
Height30 - 120 cm
Spread50 - 130 cm
GrowthMedium

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionPolystichum setiferum is a rhizomatous, softly-textured evergreen fern with mid-green fronds and stalks covered in orange-brown scales.
ShapeClumping.
LandscapeUnderplanting or border for cottages, informal, rose and wildflower gardens.
PropagationBy sowing spores or division of rhizomes.
CultivationGrow in part to full shade, in moist, well-drained, humusy soil. Protect from excess moisture in winter.
Notable SpecimensVanDusen Botanical Garden, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Sissinghurst Castle Gardens, Cranbrook, Kent, United Kingdom.
Bark/Stem DescriptionStipes are covered in wide, pale orange-brown scales.
Leaf DescriptionMid-green, pointed fronds are 30 - 120 ⨉ 10 - 25 cm with pinnae up to 11 ⨉ 2.5 cm, up to 40 per side. Secondary divisions or pinnules have serrated margins.
Flower DescriptionNon-flowering.
Colour DescriptionGreenish-red foliage. Greenish-red stems.
Texture DescriptionFronds have a soft feathery texture.

Photographs