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Finely divided green fronds of the soft shield fern in a shady borderFerns

Polystichum setiferum

Soft Shield Fern

fernshade plantevergreenwoodland gardenornamental foliage

The soft shield fern is an elegant, evergreen fern with finely divided, soft green fronds that arch gracefully outwards. The plant forms a beautiful rosette and fits perfectly in shady borders and woodland gardens. Mature specimens can reach up to 120 centimetres across.

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Before
After

Characteristics

Sun
Partial shade, Full shade
Water
Medium
Height
50–120 cm
Spread
60–120 cm
Hardiness zone
5–8
Family
Dryopteridaceae
Evergreen
Yes
Wildlife value
ground-nesting birds, insects

Care guide

Plant in partial shade or full shade in moisture-retentive, humus-rich soil. The fern does not tolerate drying out, so keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Apply a layer of leaf compost around the base as mulch. Protect plants in their first year during hard frosts with a layer of straw.

Pruning tips

Remove old, brown fronds in early spring before the new fiddleheads unfurl. Cut the fronds low to the ground — fresh growth emerges from the crown of the plant.

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Full sunHigh10–15 cm