The Soft Shield Fern (Polystichum setiferum) is a graceful and architectural addition to any shaded garden. A recipient of the RHS Award of Garden Merit, this British native fern is celebrated for its finely divided, feathery fronds that form a soft, spreading shuttlecock shape.
Unlike many ferns, the fronds are soft to the touch and remain semi-evergreen, providing valuable structure and a splash of forest green throughout the winter months. As the new fronds emerge in spring, they unfurl in a beautiful display of silver-grey scales. Supplied in established 1Ltr pots, these ferns are ready to thrive in woodland settings, north-facing borders, or cool, shaded patio containers.
Key Features:
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Feathery Texture: Intricately divided fronds create a soft, delicate look compared to other fern varieties.
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Semi-Evergreen: Retains much of its foliage through winter for year-round garden interest.
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RHS Award of Garden Merit: Recognised for its outstanding performance and reliability in UK gardens.
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Native Variety: Perfectly adapted to the British climate and excellent for supporting local biodiversity.
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Established 1Ltr Pots: Superior quality plants with a robust root system, ensuring successful establishment.
Planting & Care Instructions:
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Position: Best in partial to full shade. Thrives in a sheltered spot protected from strong winds.
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Soil: Prefers moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil. Adding leaf mould or compost during planting is highly beneficial.
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Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist during the first growing season. Do not allow the soil to dry out completely in summer.
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Maintenance: In early spring, cut away any dead or untidy fronds from the previous year just as the new croziers begin to appear.
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Spacing: Plant approximately 60cm apart to allow the fronds to spread to their full potential.
Product Specifications:
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Botanical Name: Polystichum setiferum
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Common Name: Soft Shield Fern
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Plant Type: Semi-Evergreen Fern / Herbaceous Perennial
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Pot Size: 1Ltr
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Hardiness: Fully Hardy (H7)
TRPG charges for delivery depending on the shipment locations and weight of items.
1st class P&P to UK is £5.95
2nd class P&P to UK is £4.50
P&P for heavy items such as plant support will be charged at £8