Polystichum rigens

RHS Plant Profile
rigid holly fern
Ferns

Has mid green, narrowly triangular, bipinate evergreen leaf blades and its compact size make it a good choice for the front of a shady border.

Position

Full shade, Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Loam

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

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

Position

Full shade Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
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
Habit
Tufted
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
Japan

How to Grow

Cultivation

Easy to grow in a shady site with soil enriched by decomposed leaf litter or similar organic matter. A compact and slow growing evergreen suitable for shady border edges. Water well in first year after which it will thrive in most moist but well drained soils. For more information see our advice page how to grow ferns.

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Low Maintenance
  • Ground cover
  • Garden edging
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Underplanting of roses and shrubs

Pruning

Dead or damaged fronds may be removed as necessary

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free