Polystichum polyblepharum

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Common Name: Japanese Tassel Fern

Great Plant Picks - This evergreen fern from Japan and southern Korea does very well in the Pacific Northwest. Polystichum polyblepharum has finely divided but overlapping pinnae, the primary sub-division of a fern frond, so the semi-evergreen fronds appear lush and full and grow from a central rosette. The stems are covered with a light dusting of copper colored hairs which contrast with the dark green of the pinnea. The fronds are lustrous and add a sparkle to the woodland floor. As the fronds unfurl they flip backward appearing like a tassel, hense the common name. As they mature they right themselves to the more normal frond appearence. It would combine well with asarums and Blue hostas like Hosta 'Halcyon'. This fern grows best in rich moist to well-drained soil, but will tolerate sand or clay. Provide regular watering during dry weather to keep the fronds from drying out. This fern grows well in light to deep shade. Though it is evergreen the fronds should be cut down in late February or March, before the new fronds emerge.