Overview
Polystichum setiferum 'Densum' is a fern in the genus Polystichum, part of the Dryopteridaceae family. Polystichum setiferum 'Densum' grows best in partial shade and shade, and tolerates most soils and acidic and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include shade garden, woodland garden 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
Polystichum setiferum 'Densum' is a fern in the Dryopteridaceae used as a shade ground cover in woodland and shaded borders. It prefers north- or east-facing, sheltered sites with consistently moist, humus-rich soil. Plant into acidic to neutral, well-drained soil and avoid exposed sunny positions. Ideal locations keep the root run shaded and damp rather than dry.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Polystichum setiferum
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 'Densum' belongs to the genus Polystichum and the family Dryopteridaceae and is native to parts of Belgium and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, with populations also recorded on islands such as Madeira and Corvo. In UK gardens it is best established where summer moisture is reliable and direct sun is limited. Site the plant in partial shade or full shade on a sheltered, north- or east-facing aspect. Soils should be moist yet well-drained and rich in humus; aim for an acidic to neutral pH. Work generous leaf mould or well-rotted compost into the planting area to improve structure and moisture retention, and apply a mulch to preserve a damp root zone through drier periods. The cultivar carries a hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is classed as hardy for typical UK conditions when given shelter from prevailing wind and heat. Use Polystichum setiferum 'Densum' as a low ground cover beneath trees, in shaded borders or as part of a woodland garden scheme where the soil remains consistently moist. Planting in groups will help create a continuous carpet in shade; top-dress with leaf mould each spring to maintain the humus-rich conditions this fern prefers.
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
- Exposure
- sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Polystichum setiferum 'Densum' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Fern
- Suggested uses
- shade garden, woodland garden, 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 'Densum'
- Cultivation
- Prefers sheltered, shady positions with moist, humus-rich soil. Avoid direct sunlight and dry conditions.
- 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 'Densum'?
Prefers sheltered, shady positions with moist, humus-rich soil. Avoid direct sunlight and dry conditions.
Where is the best place to plant Polystichum setiferum 'Densum'?
Polystichum setiferum 'Densum' prefers partial shade and shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Polystichum setiferum 'Densum' need?
Polystichum setiferum 'Densum' 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 'Densum'?
Remove old or damaged fronds in early spring to encourage fresh growth.
Is Polystichum setiferum 'Densum' hardy in the UK?
Polystichum setiferum 'Densum' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Polystichum setiferum 'Densum'?
Division in spring or spore propagation.
More in the Polystichum genus
- Polystichum set. 'Herrenhausen'
- Polystichum setiferum 'Dahlem'Soft Shield Fern
- Polystichum adiantiforme
- Polystichum discretum