Polypodium vulgare

common polypody

• Position: full sun or dappled shade
• Soil: moderately fertile, humus-rich, gritty or stony, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  This evergreen fern is a native of Britain, and as such is one of the most versatile for our climate, being content in most soils, damp or dry, as long as it has some shade. It has long, leathery, dark green fronds with a slight sheen, and an attractive, lacy appearance. Try growing it in walls, where there is little soil, or securing it into trees for a tropical effect. It also looks wonderful left to colonise in a woodland setting or under deciduous trees. If it is happy, it will spread almost indefinitely, but never becomes invasive.
  
  
• Garden care: Wrap the rhizomes in moss and tie to a suitable rooting medium and keep moist until established. Shelter from cold, drying winds.