Polystichum polyblepharum

Description

Polystichum polyblepharum – Japanese tassel fern

Botanical name: Polystichum polyblepharum
Common names: Japanese tassel fern
Family: Dryopteridaceae
Plant type: Evergreen fern
Habit: Clump-forming, arching shuttlecock
Pot size: 3 litre pot
Eventual size: Approx. 45–60cm tall × 60cm spread
Foliage: Glossy, dark green, finely divided fronds; unfurling croziers clothed in golden hairs that flop back like tassels; evergreen
Flowers: None — ferns reproduce by spores, not flowers
Scent: Not scented
Aspect / light: Partial to full shade
Soil: Moist but well-drained, humus-rich; any pH
Hardiness: RHS H5 (hardy, to about −15°C); USDA zones 5–8
Exposure: Sheltered
Native range: Species native to Japan and Korea
Toxicity / pet & child safety: Generally considered non-toxic to people and pets

Polystichum polyblepharum, the Japanese tassel fern, has glossy dark green fronds and unfurling croziers clothed in golden hairs that flop back like tassels. A handsome evergreen for shady and woodland borders.

GardenAdvice notes

A handsome, glossy evergreen fern from Japan and Korea, the tassel fern is named for the way its unfurling spring croziers are densely clothed in golden hairs and bend back on themselves like little tassels. It forms neat, arching shuttlecocks of dark, glossy fronds and gives excellent year-round structure in shade.

Growing & planting

Plant in spring or autumn in moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil in partial to full shade, with shelter from cold, drying winds. Work in leaf mould or compost to hold moisture, and space according to the ultimate size, generally about 45–60cm apart.

Care & maintenance

Low-maintenance. Keep the soil from drying out, especially while establishing, and mulch with leaf mould in autumn. Remove old, tatty or frost-burnt fronds in early spring before the new growth unfurls. No feeding is usually needed beyond an annual mulch.

Propagation

• Division: Lift and divide congested clumps in spring.
• Spores: Can be raised from spores sown on moist, sterile compost, though this is slow and specialised.

Pests & diseases

Generally trouble-free and robust. Slugs and snails may graze the soft young fronds as they unfurl in spring, and fronds can scorch in dry or exposed positions. Moist soil and shelter keep it looking its best.

Uses in the garden

Ideal for shady and woodland borders, north-facing beds and among other shade plants, where its glossy evergreen fronds give reliable structure

Wildlife value

The fronds and crown provide cover and shelter for small invertebrates through the year.

Toxicity & safety

Ferns are generally regarded as non-toxic to people and pets, though as with all ornamental plants they are not intended for eating.

GardenAdvice tip

The delight of the tassel fern is in spring, when the new croziers unfurl covered in golden hairs and curl back like tassels — plant it where you’ll catch that moment up close. It’s an easy, glossy evergreen the rest of the year too; just keep it moist and shaded and remove old fronds in early spring.

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