Polypodium cambricum
Welsh polypody
A semi-evergreen fern that grows up to 60cm in height. It has mid-to bright green, triangular fronds that are deeply cut into feathery leaflets. It reproduces via spores, which are contained in sori. These sori are yellow to orange in winter and are located on the underside of the fronds
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green Yellow |
Position
- Full shade
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Polypodiaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Polypodium can be evergreen or deciduous ferns, with creeping rhizomes bearing simple or pinnate fronds at intervals
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe
How to grow
Cultivation
Easy to grow in most cool, moist, lightly shaded sites and will grow in full sun if given plenty of moisture. Tolerant of dry shade but water regularly in their first season and mulch well. See how to grow ferns for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by division or spores
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildlife gardens
- Banks and slopes
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required, but old or faded fronds can be removed if necessary
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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