Hard Shield Fern

Polystichum aculeatum

• Position: full or partial shade
• Soil: fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  This evergreen fern is a native of Britain, with lustrous, long, narrow, dark green fronds forming a distinctive shuttlecock-like shape. It looks wonderful left to colonise in a woodland setting or under deciduous trees, where it will provide interest all year round. The filigree-like foliage looks stunning when it is covered in frost.
  
  
• Garden care: Incorporate lots of well-rotted leaf mould, composted pine needles or garden compost into the planting hole. Remove dead foliage in spring.