Polystichum aculeatum
hard shield fern
An evergreen fern forming a neat rosette of bipinnate, erect or arching, leathery dark green, narrowly lanceolate fronds to 90cm long, with slightly prickly pinnules
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full shade
- Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Dryopteridaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Polystichum are mostly evergreen or semi-evergreen ferns, with short stout rhizomes and pinnately divided fronds in neat shuttlecock-like rosettes
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe, N Africa, Middle East
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in fertile, humus-rich well-drained soil in deep or partial shade; protect the crowns from excessive winter wet and provide a mulch around the crown to prevent crown drying out. See how to grow ferns for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by spores, sow spores at 15-16°C (59-61°F) when ripe. Divide rhizomes in spring or detach fronds bearing bulbils in autumn
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Patio and container plants
- Rock garden
- City and courtyard gardens
- Coastal
- Low Maintenance
- Underplanting of roses and shrubs
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Remove dead fronds before new ones unfurl
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Dense plantings may be susceptible to grey moulds (botrytis) or the fungal disease Taphrina wettsteiniana
Get involved
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