Soft Shield Fern 'Cristatum'

Polystichum setiferum 'Cristatum' is a captivating cultivar of the native Soft Shield Fern, highly prized for its intricately crested fronds. This evergreen fern showcases the same soft, lacy texture as the species, but each individual pinna (leaflet) and the frond tip itself are adorned with decorative, branching crests, giving the whole plant a wonderfully ruffled and luxuriant appearance. It forms an elegant, arching shuttlecock-like clump, typically growing to 60-90cm in height and spread. 'Cristatum' thrives in partial to full shade and prefers well-drained, moist, humus-rich soil. Its unique crested fronds provide exceptional texture and visual interest, making it an outstanding focal point in woodland gardens, shaded borders, or as a specimen plant in a fernery. A truly delightful and resilient fern for the UK garden.

Sun: Partial shade to full shade.

Soil: Moist, well-drained, humus-rich.

Hardiness: H6 — down to −20°C.