Also known as Bristle Holly Fern · Bristly Fern · European Shield-Fern
Polystichum setiferum, the English Hedge Fern, is an elegant evergreen fern with soft, shuttlecock-like fronds, ideal for shady, moist garden spots and woodland settings.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade
25% intensity
Thrives in dappled shade or partial shade. Protect from direct, intense sunlight.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Prefers evenly moist soil, avoid waterlogging.
Moist, well-drained, humus-rich
50% intensity
Cool to Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, tolerates light frost. Avoid extreme heat and freezing conditions.
Light Feeding
25% intensity
Feed sparingly in spring and early summer with diluted liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water more frequently during dry spells, especially in warmer weather.
Reduce watering in winter, allowing the top layer of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Remove any dead, damaged, or yellowing fronds at the base of the plant using clean, sharp secateurs. This improves the plant's appearance and health, and encourages new growth.
Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new fronds emerge.
Propagate by dividing established clumps in spring. Carefully separate sections with healthy roots and at least one or two fronds. Replant divisions immediately into well-draining soil and water thoroughly.
Alternatively, spores can be collected and sown on moist compost.
Repot 'Polystichum setiferum' every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes pot-bound. Use a good quality, peat-based potting compost with added grit for drainage.
Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one to allow for root expansion.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of English Hedge Fern (Polystichum setiferum)
Where English Hedge Fern (Polystichum setiferum) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Dryopteridaceae |
| Genus | Polystichum |
| Species | Polystichum setiferum |
Similar in genus Polystichum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
