soft shield fern
Polystichum setiferum
RHS AGM 1993
USDA zones6 to 8
SunHandles partial sun to full shade
WaterHandles dry to moist soil
Size2 to 3 feet tall2 to 3 feet wide
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Habit
- Arching
- Bloom color
- Non-flowering
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Notes
Soft shield fern (Polystichum setiferum) is a fern for shade gardens, woodland settings, borders, and containers. It is hardy to USDA zone 6, or down to -10°F (-23°C). This plant likes part sun to full shade and dry to moist soil of most types. It is not a favorite of deer or rabbits, though hungry ones will eat almost anything. The arching green fronds are evergreen and reach 24 to 36 inches tall and wide. They add winter interest when other plants fade.
Pairs well with Foam flower, Japanese forest grass, and Lungwort.
Native range
Central America, South America, and Panamá.