Polystichum setiferum Congestum - Soft Shield Fern

Polystichum setiferum Congestum is a very pretty, compact and sturdy form of the Polystichum fern, also known as Soft Shield Fern. This small plant, which forms a dense cluster of intensely divided fronds, with a bright green colour and a very soft touch, is a true gem to place in a shady rockery, in the undergrowth or in a nice pot on the terrace. More or less evergreen in winter, it is easy to grow in all regions, in shady conditions, in a fresh, humus-rich and well-drained soil.

The Soft Shield Fern, formerly named Polystichum angulare, is a botanical species native to Western Europe, especially southern Europe, Great Britain, as well as temperate Asia and North Africa. Its natural habitat consists of shaded woods and ravines. It is a perennial plant from the Dryopteridaceae family, which has given rise to more than 300 more or less distinct cultivars. Polystichum setiferum resembles Polystichum aculeatum, but can be distinguished by the softer texture of its lamina, and their matt appearance. They usually dry up in autumn.

The more compact 'Congestum' form will reach about 35 cm (14 in) in height and 30 cm (12 in) in width. This fern forms a dense, slightly spreading tuft with an upright habit. The young crooks that emerge in spring are brown, and then unfurl to reveal silvery and shiny scales. The slightly arched fronds have a widened lamina in the centre, intensely divided into 30 to 40 pairs of dentate pinnae, covered with bristles. The stipe of each frond is very scaly and brown. Depending on the severity of the winter, the foliage of this perennial plant persists more or less.

The Polystichum genus comprises a very diverse and particularly decorative variety of species and varieties throughout the year. The Soft Shield Fern is a species that adapts to many cool and shady situations, in well-drained soil as it fears stagnant moisture. Its small silky fronds invite touch, so place it within reach, in a shady rockery or in a nice pot on the terrace. In the undergrowth, it can be associated with small bulbs (such as blanda anemones and Naples cyclamen), simple and undemanding plants such as butcher's-broom, small periwinkles or black mondo grass, for example. This lovely 'Congestum' form also goes well with fuchsias and hostas.