Soft Shield Fern

(Polystichum setiferum)

Soft Shield Fern (Polystichum setiferum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Polystichum setiferum, commonly known as Soft Shield Fern, is an evergreen or semi-deciduous fern native to the understory of temperate broadleaf forests, often found in shaded and moist areas, including Northwestern Europe and parts of the Mediterranean region. It typically grows to a height and width of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters), featuring soft, feathery fronds that create a lush, textured appearance. The fronds are dark green, with a lacy texture that adds visual interest throughout the year.

Soft Shield Fern is valued for its ease of maintenance and ability to thrive in shaded conditions, making it an excellent choice for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and as ground cover under larger trees. It is also suitable for container planting and can be used in shaded rock gardens. This fern prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil with a rich organic content and thrives in part shade to full shade. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during prolonged dry periods. While generally disease-free, it can occasionally suffer from rust or fungal spots in overly wet conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Fern
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Border Plant, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Temperate broadleaf forests, shaded and moist areas

Other Names

Common Names: Soft Shield-Fern , Borstiger Schildfarn , Grannen-Schildfarn , Polystic À Soies , Zachte Naaldvaren , Spetsbräken

Scientific Names: Polystichum setiferum , Polystichum setiferum var. setiferum , Polystichum angulare , Aspidium aculeatum subsp. angulare , Aspidium angulare , Polystichum aculeatum subsp. angulare , Polystichum setiferum var. hastulatum , Aspidium aculeatum var. angulare , Dryopteris setifera , Polypodium setiferum

GBIF Accepted Name: Polystichum setiferum (Forssk.) Moore ex Woyn.