Shield Fern (Polystichum Lepidocaulon) is a perennial fern in the Dryopteridaceae family with moderate care difficulty. It requires moderate watering and partial shade or full shade or dappled_shade light in USDA hardiness zones 7-9. This plant is safe for cats and dogs. It can be grown indoors.

An evergreen fern native to mountainous rocky cliffs, characterized by glossy, holly fern-like leaves.

Shield Fern

Shield Fern

Polystichum Lepidocaulon

An evergreen fern native to mountainous rocky cliffs, characterized by glossy, holly fern-like leaves.

Quick Facts

Type
fern
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Water Needs
Moderate
Light
Partial Shade, Full Shade, dappled_shade
Hardiness Zones
7-9

Safety

🐕
Pet Safe
👶
Child Safe
Non-Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:loamy, silty, peaty
Indoor:Yes
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:groundcover, ornamental foliage

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Shield Fern

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Shield Fern
Shield Fern detail

View leaf details, flowers, seeds & more in the app

Taxonomy

Family:Dryopteridaceae
Genus:Polystichum