Polypodium vulgare 'Cornubiense' (Crested polypody) — Fern

Overview

Polypodium vulgare 'Cornubiense' is a fern in the genus Polypodium, part of the Polypodiaceae family. It typically grows around 0.3 m tall. Polypodium vulgare 'Cornubiense' grows best in full shade, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include groundcover, rock gardens and woodland gardens. It is native to Belgium, Flemish Region and Walloon Region.

About the genus

Polypodium is a genus of ferns in the family Polypodiaceae, subfamily Polypodioideae, according to the Pteridophyte Phylogeny Group classification of 2016 (PPG I). The genus is widely distributed throughout the world, with the highest species diversity in the tropics. The name is derived from Ancient Greek poly ("many") + podion, on account of the foot-like appearance of the rhizome and its branches.

Wikipedia contributors, "Polypodium", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Polypodium

In the garden

Polypodium vulgare 'Cornubiense' belongs to the Polypodiaceae and is native to Belgium’s Flemish and Walloon regions. As a shade-adapted fern it establishes a low layer of foliage, making it appropriate where taller plants are not wanted but bare soil needs covering. Expect a final height close to 0.3 m. Place it where light is limited — full shade or shaded aspects give the best results. It accepts a wide range of soils (sandy, loamy or clay) provided they are well-drained; soils that remain moist without waterlogging suit it. The plant’s hardiness rating, H7, means it tolerates the coldest UK conditions and corresponds to USDA zones 3–6, so it can be left outdoors through winter without protection in typical British gardens. Use Polypodium vulgare 'Cornubiense' as a ground cover beneath trees, on north-facing walls or in the crevices of rock gardens and woodland borders. Its low stature and shade tolerance make it a practical choice for filling shaded pockets where other perennials struggle to establish, especially on slopes or banks where erosion control is needed.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Polypodium

Sunlight: Full shade
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil moisture: Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
Exposure: Shade
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Polypodium vulgare 'Cornubiense' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Fern
Height: 0.3 m
Suggested uses: Groundcover, Rock gardens, Woodland gardens
Native to: Belgium, Flemish Region, Walloon Region

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Polypodium vulgare 'Cornubiense'

Cultivation: Prefers shaded, moist, well-drained soil; tolerant of dry conditions once established
Pruning: Remove dead or damaged fronds in spring
Propagation: Division, spores

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Polypodium vulgare 'Cornubiense'?

Prefers shaded, moist, well-drained soil; tolerant of dry conditions once established.

Where is the best place to plant Polypodium vulgare 'Cornubiense'?

Polypodium vulgare 'Cornubiense' prefers full shade. It suits shade positions.

What soil does Polypodium vulgare 'Cornubiense' need?

Polypodium vulgare 'Cornubiense' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Polypodium vulgare 'Cornubiense'?

Remove dead or damaged fronds in spring.

How big does Polypodium vulgare 'Cornubiense' grow?

Polypodium vulgare 'Cornubiense' reaches a height of 0.3 m.

Is Polypodium vulgare 'Cornubiense' hardy in the UK?

Polypodium vulgare 'Cornubiense' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.