Polystichum setiferum Acutilobum Group
soft shield fern Acutilobum Group
Clump-forming, evergreen or semi-evergreen ferns, with broad, lance-shaped, finely divided fronds, clothed with white scales as they unfurl. The largest fronds can bear small plantlets on the upper-sides.
Synonyms
Polystichum setiferum Proliferum GroupPolystichum setiferum (Acutilobum Group) 'Proliferum'
see morePolystichum proliferum misapplied
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Neutral, Acid, AlkalineColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full shade
- Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Dryopteridaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen or 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
Accepted
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a moist but free draining soil in partial shade. Can tolerate sun if the soil remains moist. See how to grow ferns
Propagation
Propagate by division or plantlets
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Low Maintenance
- Flower borders and beds
- Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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