Polystichum setiferum 'Acutilobum' (soft shield fern Acutilobum Group) — Fern

Overview

Polystichum setiferum 'Acutilobum' is a fern in the genus Polystichum, part of the Dryopteridaceae family. Polystichum setiferum 'Acutilobum' grows best in partial shade and shade, and tolerates most soils and acidic and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include shade garden, woodland garden, borders and ground cover. It is native to Belgium, Brussels-Capital Region, Flemish Region, Walloon Region, Flanders, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, Madeira Island and Corvo Island.

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 setiferum 'Acutilobum' is a member of the Dryopteridaceae native to parts of Belgium, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and Atlantic islands such as Madeira and Corvo. As a shade-adapted Polystichum, it has the leaf form and ground cover habit typical of soft shield ferns and is valued where lower-layer evergreen structure is wanted through the colder months. Give it partial shade or full shade on a north-, east- or west-facing site with protection from strong winds; a sheltered aspect helps prevent fronds from drying out. It performs on moist, well-drained, humus-rich soils of acid to neutral reaction. Maintain consistent moisture—soil described as moist suits it best—while avoiding compacted, waterlogged ground. Use Polystichum setiferum 'Acutilobum' in a shade garden or woodland setting, planted beneath shrubs and trees where it can act as ground cover or a soft-textured foil in mixed shade borders. It also settles well to reinforce the front of borders where winter foliage continuity matters. Because it retains fronds through winter, position it where those arching leaves contribute to the low-level structure of the bed rather than where seasonal clearance is required.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Polystichum

Sunlight: partial shade, shade
Soil type: moist, well-drained, humus-rich
Soil pH: acidic, neutral
Soil moisture: moist
Aspect: north, east, west
Exposure: sheltered
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Polystichum setiferum 'Acutilobum' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Fern
Suggested uses: shade garden, woodland garden, borders, ground cover
Native to: Belgium, Brussels-Capital Region, Flemish Region, Walloon Region, Flanders, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, Madeira Island, Corvo Island

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Polystichum setiferum 'Acutilobum'

Cultivation: Prefers sheltered, shady positions with moist, humus-rich soil. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent frond scorch.
Pruning: Remove old or damaged fronds in early spring to encourage fresh growth.
Propagation: Division in spring or spore propagation.

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Polystichum setiferum 'Acutilobum'?

Prefers sheltered, shady positions with moist, humus-rich soil. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent frond scorch.

Where is the best place to plant Polystichum setiferum 'Acutilobum'?

Polystichum setiferum 'Acutilobum' prefers partial shade and shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Polystichum setiferum 'Acutilobum' need?

Polystichum setiferum 'Acutilobum' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including moist, well-drained and humus-rich. It prefers acidic and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.

How do I prune Polystichum setiferum 'Acutilobum'?

Remove old or damaged fronds in early spring to encourage fresh growth.

Is Polystichum setiferum 'Acutilobum' hardy in the UK?

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