Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Polystichum setiferum
Soft Shield Fern
- Family
- Dryopteridaceae
- Height
- 24 to 36 inches
- Width
- 24 to 36 inches
- Flower color
- Non-flowering
- Foliage color
- Soft-textured, glossy dark green, evergreen
- Bloom time
- Non-flowering
- Light
- Part shade to full shade
- Water
- Average
- Maintenance
- Low; remove old fronds in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 6 to 8
- Wildlife
- Deer-resistant; provides cover for small wildlife
About this plant
Polystichum setiferum is an elegant evergreen fern valued for its finely textured, feathery fronds. The arching, lance-shaped fronds are light green when young, maturing to a deeper green, and are soft to the touch. Although ferns do not flower, this species offers year-round interest with its lush foliage and layered appearance.
Native to Europe, particularly the shaded woodlands and damp environments of the British Isles, Polystichum setiferum is well-suited to temperate climates. Its adaptable nature and delicate frond structure make it a popular choice for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and naturalistic plantings.
Works well in
Borders · Shade Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens
Companion plants
Heucheras · Siberian bugloss · Sweet woodruff · Foamflowers · Epimediums · Hostas
Design tip
Foliage and form do most of the work here, so lean on texture and repetition rather than one flowering moment. Cooler light suits it, so tuck it on the north side of a shrub or wall where the soil stays even.
