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Polystichum setiferum Divisilobum Group
  • RHS AGM

soft shield fern Divisilobum Group

A group of evergreen ferns growing to 60cm tall and wide. The soft-textured, arching fronds are divided 2-3 times and bulbils are often produced along the midrib of the frond

Synonyms
Polystichum setiferum 'Divisilobum'
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full shade
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or North–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Dryopteridaceae
Native to the UK
No
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

Accepted

How to grow

Cultivation

Grows well in most cool, fertile, moist, humus-rich, shaded soils. Protect crowns from excessive winter wet. See how to grow ferns for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by sowing spores as soon as ripe, division of rhizomes in spring or by bulbils in autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Architectural
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Ground cover
Pruning

Dead or damaged fronds may be removed as necessary

Pests

Generally pest-free outdoors

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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