Polystichum polyblepharum, commonly called Tassel Fern, Japanese Tassel Fern, or Japanese Lace Fern, is a hardy evergreen fern that brings year-round structure to your garden.
It forms a neat shuttlecock shape of arching, glossy dark green fronds. In spring, the young fronds emerge upright with golden-brown hair-like scales. The tips curl and hang slightly, creating the distinctive “tassel” effect that gives this plant its name.
This fern works well in woodland planting, shaded borders, or beneath shrubs and trees. You can also plant it near ponds or damp garden edges where its foliage adds texture throughout the year.
Key Features
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Botanical name: Polystichum polyblepharum
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Common names: Tassel Fern, Japanese Tassel Fern, Japanese Lace Fern
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Plant type: Evergreen fern
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Mature height: up to 60cm
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Mature spread: up to 60cm
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Position: Full sun or partial shade
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Soil: Moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil
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Foliage: Glossy dark green, bipinnate fronds
Benefits for UK Wildlife
- Dense fronds create shelter for frogs, toads, and other small garden wildlife.
- Shaded planting around the base provides cool hiding places for insects and beetles.
- Evergreen foliage offers year-round cover in wildlife-friendly gardens.
Planting Tips
- Plant in humus-rich soil with good drainage.
- Choose a sheltered spot in partial shade for the best foliage.
- Water during dry periods while plants establish.
- Add leaf mould or compost when planting to improve soil structure.
- Remove tired fronds in early spring before new growth appears.
Why Grow Polystichum polyblepharum?
- Evergreen structure for shaded areas of the garden.
- Distinctive tassel-like spring growth.
- Low maintenance once established.
- Supports wildlife by providing natural shelter.
Looking to add a reliable evergreen texture to a shaded border? Polystichum polyblepharum is a strong choice for woodland planting, wildlife gardens, and damp garden edges.
