Polystichum setiferum 'Dahlem' (Dahlem Soft Shield Fern)


Botanical Information

FamilyDryopteridaceae
GenusPolystichum
Speciessetiferum
Cultivar'Dahlem'
CategoryPerennials
TypeFerns

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone1a - 6a
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone0a - 5b
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH7
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-51 - (-21)
Temperature (°F)-60 - (-5)
Height30 - 120 cm
Spread50 - 130 cm
GrowthMedium

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionA rhizomatous, softly-textured evergreen fern with mid-green fronds and stalks covered in orange-brown scales.
ShapeClumping.
LandscapeGround cover, flower bed borders, underplanting of roses and shrubs or around cottages.
PropagationBy sowing spores or division of rhizomes.
CultivationGrow in part to full shade, in moist, well-drained, humus-rich slightly acidic soil. Protect from excess moisture in winter.
Notable SpecimensVanDusen Botanical Garden, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
HabitatHorticultural origin.
Bark/Stem DescriptionStipes are covered in wide, pale orange-brown scales.
Leaf DescriptionPinnately divided fronds of small very serrated leaflets. Pointed fronds are 30 - 120 ⨉ 10 - 25 cm with pinnae up to 11 ⨉ 2.5 cm, up to 40 per side. Secondary divisions or pinnules have serrated margins.
Colour DescriptionGreenish-red foliage. Greenish-red stems.
Texture DescriptionFronds have a soft feathery texture.

Photographs