Polystichum 'Tassel Fern'

Polystichum polyblepharum: Tassel Fern

Lustrous, symmetrical, and undeniably refined, the Tassel Fern brings elegance to the shade garden with its deep green, arching fronds and tidy, vase-shaped habit. Each frond unfurls from the centre in a graceful “tassel” curl—hence its name—before maturing into a lush, evergreen display. The leathery texture and slightly glossy sheen make this fern a standout in both formal and naturalistic settings. Slow-growing but long-lived, Polystichum polyblepharum offers year-round interest and a polished, classic look.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 45–60 cm
• Spread: 45–75 cm
• Flower Colour: None (foliage plant)
• Flowering Period: N/A
• Foliage: Glossy, dark green, evergreen fronds with finely toothed margins and a graceful arching habit
• Sunlight Requirements: Part shade to full shade
• Soil Requirements: Moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil

Uses and Benefits: The Tassel Fern is perfect for shaded borders, woodland paths, or refined understory groupings where form and foliage take centre stage. Its neat, clumping habit adds structure and seasonal consistency, while the evergreen fronds provide texture through winter. Excellent for containers in the shade or as a companion to bolder foliage plants. Deer resistant and slow to spread, it’s an easy-care choice that rewards patience with lasting beauty.

Companion Plants: Surround Polystichum polyblepharum with the silvery-pink foliage of Heuchera 'Silver Gumdrop', the deeply lobed and patterned leaves of Tiarella 'Cutting Edge', and the bright, variegated tufts of Carex 'Evergold'. This combination offers stunning contrast in texture and colour while thriving in part to full shade with minimal maintenance.

Care Instructions: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during hot, dry weather. Apply compost or mulch annually to enrich soil and retain moisture. Remove any damaged fronds in early spring to maintain a fresh appearance. Though slow to establish, the plant is long-lived and rarely needs division. Best planted in protected spots away from drying winds and intense afternoon sun.

History: Native to Japan and Korea, Polystichum polyblepharum has long been admired for its ornamental fronds and distinctive unfurling habit. The name “polyblepharum” refers to the fine bristles on the frond stems, adding texture even in the smallest details. Its refined beauty has made it a favourite among collectors and shade gardeners alike.

Final Thoughts: With its lustrous fronds and classic form, the Tassel Fern is a jewel of the shade garden—offering poise, texture, and year-round elegance. A must-have for those who value lasting structure and understated charm.