Korean Rock Fern
Polystichum sp.

• Common name: Shield Fern
• Scientific name: Polystichum sp.
• Native to temperate areas around the globe
• Evergreen fern with shiny dark green fronds
• Has stronger fronds with a rougher texture than the similar genus Dryopteris
• Grows 18-24’’ tall
• Hardy in zones 5-9

GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

• Prefers light shade but will grow in full shade
• Will tolerate some direct sun in the morning or late afternoon
• Prefers evenly moist media; will not perform well in waterlogged soil
• Should be protected from strong winds

PROPAGATION

• Propagated by division of the root ball in spring
• Space plants 15-18’’ apart
• Can also be propagated from spores
• Sow spores on the top of moist, humus-rich media; transfer to pots when plants are large enough to handle

DISORDERS

• Problems with pests and diseases are rare

CONSUMER CARE

• Remove old fronds from the plant in early spring
• Shiny foliage adds luster to a woodland garden
• Can be grown in containers
• Often used as a backdrop for cut flower arrangements

CULTIVARS AND SPECIES

• Polystichum polyblepharum (Tassel Fern): Evergreen foliage; as fronds unwind the tips hang down, giving the appearance of tassels
• Polystichum tsus-simense (Korean Rock Fern): Dark shiny green fronds with bronze tones; semi-evergreen
foliage

Selected from:http://environmentalhorticulture.umd.edu/Ferns/Polystichum.pdf

Sold at Nassau County Master Gardener Plant Sale

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