Polystichum setiferum (soft shield fern) is a member of the Dryopteridaceae family. This fern exhibits a tufted growth habit and is characterized by its evergreen foliage. It has a hardiness rating of very hardy (colder than -20ºc) and is hardy in the severest European continental climates including exposed upland locations in the UK.
When fully mature, Polystichum setiferum can reach an ultimate height of 1–1.5 metres and a spread of 0.5–1 metres. For optimal growth, it prefers north–facing or south–facing or west–facing or east–facing aspect and exposed or sheltered positions. It thrives best in chalk or clay or loam or sand soil types and should be placed in full shade or partial shade.
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