Polypodiodes formosana
caterpillar fern
An epiphytic evergreen fern, with a creeping, blue-green rhizome and pinnatifid pale green fronds to 50cm long, held on straw-coloured stalks
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H3Botanical details
- Family
- Polypodiaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Spreading branched
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- China, Taiwan, Japan
How to grow
Cultivation
May be grown outdoors in the mildest areas of the UK if well-protected in winter; plant in moderately fertile, well-drained gritty soil, or in containers that can be moved indoors over winter. In colder areas, grow under glass, in equal parts fine-grade bark, perlite and charcoal See how to grow tender ferns outdoors
Propagation
Propagate by spores, or by division in spring or early summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Houseplants
- Sub-tropical
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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