Soft Shield Fern 'Herrenhausen'

The Polystichum setiferum 'Herrenhausen' is an exquisite evergreen fern, a perfect structural element for any UK woodland garden. It features a shuttlecock-like habit with finely divided, bipinnatifid fronds that have a soft, almost velvety texture. The young fronds emerge in spring covered in attractive brown scales, uncurling slowly into a lush, dark green canopy. This cultivar is particularly prized for its dense, overlapping pinnae which give it a much richer appearance than the species. Growing to about 50cm in height and spread, it is fully hardy (H7) and thrives in the damp, cool conditions characteristic of British woodlands. It is remarkably versatile, coping well with full shade and damp soil, though it dislikes waterlogging. It is ideal for planting under the canopy of deciduous trees or alongside garden paths where its intricate textures can be appreciated up close. It requires minimal maintenance, beyond the removal of old fronds in late winter.

Sun: Full shade.

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

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.