Polystichum braunii

RHS Plant Profile
Braun's holly fern

Other common names

bear's bed, shield fern

Synonyms

Aspidium braunii

Ferns

Polystichum braunii is an evergreen to semi-evergreen fern with erect to arching, lance-shaped, twice-divided, bristle-tipped, dark green fronds; young fronds are densely covered with orange-brown scales when unfurling in the spring

Position

Full shade, Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full shade Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Dryopteridaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen, Semi evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
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
Temperate N Hemisphere

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grows well in moist but well-drained, cool, humus-rich soils in full or partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by division or from spores

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Remove dead or damaged fronds in early spring

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free