Braun's holly fern

Polystichum braunii | Also known as: Bear's bed, Shield fern | Rating: 2 votes | Print / Pdf

An evergreen fern, polystichum braunii belongs to arguably the most common genus. Its arching, dark green fronds boast broad, glossy, lance-shaped leaflets that are generally scaly on their underside. The fronds arch outward from a single point, creating a lush fan. In summer, it produces tiny, insignificant light green blossoms. Commonly called braun’s holly fern, it thrives in cool, moist sites that are partially shaded, and is naturally found as under-planting in wooded areas. It also suits rockeries, beds and borders, but requires shelter from harsh frost in winter. Mulching can be a viable solution. Pruning dead fronds quickly is also recommended.

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Plant
Known dangers?
  • no
Height [m]
  • 0.6
Spread [m]
  • 0.8
Dominant flower colour
  • Inconspicuous or absent
Flower Fragrance
  • No, neutral please
Foliage in spring
  • Green
Foliage in summer
  • Green
Foliage in Autumn
  • Green
Foliage in winter
  • Green
Propagation methods
  • division
  • Spores
Growth habit
  • Arching
  • Clump-forming
  • Spreading
Environment
Acidity
  • Acidic
  • Neutral
  • Alkaline
Hardiness zone
  • Z3-8
Heat zone
  • H8-1
Winter temperatures [°C]
  • -40 - -7
Heat days
  • 0 - 120
Moisture
  • well-drained
  • well-drained but frequently watered
  • poorly-drained
Soil type
  • sandy
  • Clay
  • chalky
  • loams
Sun requirements
  • Partial shade
  • Full shade
Exposure
  • Exposed
  • Sheltered
Usage
Standard category
  • Grasses, ferns & bamboo
  • Ferns
Grown for
  • Ornamental Foliage
Creative category
  • For Beginners
  • We love the dark
Garden type
  • Woodland
  • Rock garden
Garden spaces
  • Shade
  • Ground cover
  • Borders
Gardening expertise
  • beginner
Time to reach full size
  • up to 10 years
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