About

A semi-evergreen fern that grows up to 60cm in height. These sori are yellow to orange in winter and are located on the underside of the fronds. It reproduces via spores, which are contained in sori. It has mid-to lime green, triangular fronds that are deeply cut into feathery leaflets.

About the genus

Polypodium can be evergreen or deciduous ferns, with creeping rhizomes bearing simple or pinnate fronds at intervals

Growing conditions

SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7

Plant details

Plant typeFerns
HabitClump forming
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens
Native toEurope

Care notes

CultivationEasy 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
PruningNo pruning required, but old or faded fronds can be removed if necessary
PropagationPropagate by division or spores
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free