About
Polystichum neolobatum is a clump-forming, evergreen fern with bristly, scaly stems and fairly narrow, tapering fronds with glossy foliage and serrated leaf margins. A rewarding and ornamental fern for a shaded, moist, sheltered border.
About the genus
Polystichum are mostly evergreen or semi-evergreen ferns with short, stout rhizomes and pinnately divided fronds in neat, shuttlecock-like rosettes. Among the most reliable and ornamental of all shade-tolerant ferns.
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeLoam, Clay
Soil pHNeutral, Acid
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectWest-facing, East-facing, North-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeFerns
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens, Patio and container plants
Native toHimalaya to Taiwan
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but free draining soil in partial shade. Once established, it's able to cope with dryer conditions better than most, so it's ideal for adding structural interest to a partially shaded spot beneath a tree or next to a wall. See how to grow ferns for further advice
PruningGenerally not required. Can remove any faded fronds if required.
PropagationPrppagate by division
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free