Overview
Polystichum munitum 'Inciso-serratum' is a fern in the genus Polystichum, part of the Dryopteridaceae family. It typically grows around 1.0 m tall. Polystichum munitum 'Inciso-serratum' grows best in full shade, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to British Columbia.
About
Polystichum munitum 'Inciso-serratum' is a fern cultivar that typically produces fronds to about 1.0 m. It prefers full shade and suits sandy or loamy soils that remain moist but drain freely. Hardiness ratings indicate it is fully hardy in the UK (H7) and grows within USDA zones 4–8. Allow space for the upright fronds when siting.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Polystichum munitum
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 munitum 'Inciso-serratum' belongs to the Dryopteridaceae and traces its origin to British Columbia. As a member of the Polystichum group, it reaches approximately 1.0 m and performs best out of direct sun, where leaf display is retained in deeper shade. Plant in a position offering full shade in soil that is sandy or loamy and remains moist but well-drained; avoid heavy, waterlogged sites. The UK hardiness rating H7 means it tolerates the cold of outdoor gardens across the country, and the USDA range of 4–8 confirms a broad cold-tolerance band for gardeners working with those references. When planting, firm soil around the crown and sit specimens where they can be kept evenly moist without standing water. Use this cultivar in shaded borders, under taller shrubs or in a woodland-style bed where it can form upright fronds of around 1.0 m. Give plants room so individual fronds can unfurl without rubbing neighbouring plants, and locate them where their height complements lower groundcovers rather than competing with taller shrubs.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Polystichum
- Sunlight
- Full shade
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Polystichum munitum 'Inciso-serratum' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Fern
- Height
- 1.0 m
- Native to
- British Columbia
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Polystichum munitum 'Inciso-serratum'?
Polystichum munitum 'Inciso-serratum' prefers full shade.
What soil does Polystichum munitum 'Inciso-serratum' need?
Polystichum munitum 'Inciso-serratum' grows best in sandy and loamy soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How big does Polystichum munitum 'Inciso-serratum' grow?
Polystichum munitum 'Inciso-serratum' reaches a height of 1.0 m.
Is Polystichum munitum 'Inciso-serratum' hardy in the UK?
Polystichum munitum 'Inciso-serratum' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
More in the Polystichum genus
- Polystichum set. 'Herrenhausen'
- Polystichum setiferum 'Dahlem'Soft Shield Fern
- Polystichum adiantiforme
- Polystichum discretum