Overview
Polystichum discretum is a fern in the genus Polystichum, part of the Dryopteridaceae family. Polystichum discretum grows best in shade and partial shade, and tolerates moist and well-drained soils. It is native to New Zealand.
About
Polystichum discretum is a fern native to New Zealand, valued for planting in shaded, sheltered sites. Fresh frond growth is evident in spring and continues through summer. It prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil and suits both full shade and partial shade exposures. Position it where wind and harsh exposure are limited so fronds can open unbroken.
About the genus
Polystichum is a genus of ferns in the family Dryopteridaceae, subfamily Dryopteridoideae, according to the Pteridophyte Phylogeny Group classification of 2016. The genus has about 500 species and has a cosmopolitan distribution. The highest diversity is in eastern Asia, with about 208 species in China alone; the region from Mexico to Brazil has at least 100 additional species; Africa, North America, and Europe have much lower diversity.
Wikipedia contributors, "Polystichum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Polystichum
In the garden
Polystichum discretum is a fern from New Zealand and belongs to the Dryopteridaceae family. It produces its most noticeable new growth in spring and carries that development through the summer months. As a species accustomed to sheltered, shaded habitats in its native range, it performs best when sited out of strong winds and direct hot sun. Plant into rich, moist but well‑drained soil; avoid heavy, waterlogged ground. A generous layer of organic mulch will help keep root-zone moisture even without allowing standing water. Choose a position in full shade or partial shade — light dappled shade from an overstorey or the north side of buildings and walls suits it well. Shelter from drying winds is important because exposed fronds can flag under harsh conditions. In UK gardens it works well in shaded borders, beneath trees where root competition is not severe, or beside paths where its spring and summer fronds can be appreciated up close. Allow new fronds to open naturally and remove only clearly damaged or diseased fronds; timely light pruning keeps the crown tidy without disrupting fresh growth. Observing frond emergence in spring gives a reliable cue to how the plant is settling and whether the chosen site provides the moist, sheltered conditions it prefers.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Polystichum
- Sunlight
- shade, partial shade
- Soil type
- moist, well-drained
- Soil moisture
- moist
- Exposure
- sheltered
Plant details
Polystichum discretum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- fern
- Native to
- New Zealand
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Polystichum discretum
- Propagation
- spores
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Polystichum discretum?
Polystichum discretum prefers shade and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Polystichum discretum need?
Polystichum discretum grows best in moist and well-drained soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I propagate Polystichum discretum?
Spores.
More in the Polystichum genus
- Polystichum set. 'Herrenhausen'
- Polystichum setiferum 'Dahlem'Soft Shield Fern
- Polystichum adiantiforme