Polystichum setiferum (Divisilobum Group) Herrenhausen (Soft Field Fern)

Often used in bouquets, Polystichum setiferum ‘Herrenhausen’ (Soft Field Fern) is an elegant semi-evergreen fern forming a lacy rosette of intricately-divided fronds splaying out from the central crown.

Often used in bouquets, Polystichum setiferum 'Herrenhausen' (Soft Field Fern) is an elegant semi-evergreen fern forming a lacy rosette of intricately-divided fronds splaying out from the central crown. The stipes have a dense covering of russet scales that stands out against the feathery fronds. It forms bulbils along its stalks enabling it to be propagated true to type. More tolerant of a dry position than other ferns, Herrenhausen is particularly attractive in the shady rock garden, along the edge of a border or in containers. Evergreen in mild winter areas.

  • Clump-forming, it easily grows up to 1-2 ft. tall (30-60 cm) and 3 ft. wide (90 cm).
  • A part shade to full shade lover, it is best grown in fertile, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soils. Excellent drainage is required. Protect crowns from excessive winter wet
  • This plant is a great choice for shady beds and borders, underplanting of roses and shrubs, cottage gardens or woodland gardens. Combines well with hellebores, hostas, wild ginger (Asarum), bugloss (Brunnera macrophylla), and epimediums.
  • Virtually pest and disease free.
  • Dead or damaged fronds may be removed as necessary.
  • Propagate by sowing spores as soon as ripe, division of rhizomes in spring or by bulbils in fall

Requirements

Hardiness 6
– 8

Heat Zones 5
– 9

Climate Zones 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Plant Type Ferns
Plant Family Polystichum – Ferns
Exposure Partial Sun, Shade
Season of Interest Spring (Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)Fall
Height 1'
– 2'
(30cm
– 60cm)
Spread 2'
– 3'
(60cm
– 90cm)
Spacing 24″
– 36″
(60cm
– 90cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy, Semi-Evergreen
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Ground Covers
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage