Japanese tassel fern

Polystichum polyblepharum | Rating: 5 votes | Print / Pdf

A clump-forming, medium-sized evergreen fern, polystichum polyblepharum is arguably one of the most elegant examples of the genus. Its foliage comprises slender, dark green, lance-shaped fronds that feature tiny, sword-shaped leaflets. Commonly known as the tassel fern, these fronds unfurl from crosiers that are curled backwards, causing the young leaflets to hang downwards like tassels. Like most types of fern, it thrives in partial shade, in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil, making it ideal as woodland under-planting. While hardy, the Japanese tassel fern requires regular watering and winter mulch to ensure best results. Pruning away damaged fronds encourages healthier growth.

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Plant
Known dangers?
  • no
Height [m]
  • 0.6 - 0.8
Spread [m]
  • 0.9
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
Awards?
  • Yes, let it smell
Propagation methods
  • division
  • Spores
Growth habit
  • Clump-forming
  • Spreading
Environment
Acidity
  • Acidic
  • Neutral
  • Alkaline
Hardiness zone
  • Z6-8
Heat zone
  • H8-5
Winter temperatures [°C]
  • -23 - -7
Heat days
  • 30 - 120
Moisture
  • well-drained
  • well-drained but frequently watered
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
  • For every season
  • Author's choice
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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