Perennials – Tassel Fern

Botanical name: polystichum polyblepharum

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: 1 – 2 ft in height and in width

Hardy zone: zones 6 – 8

Foliage color: green, bronze

Growth rate: takes about 2 growing seasons to reach maturity

Pruning instructions: cut back old fronds when new ones grow in

Propagation methods: cut a stem just below a node and place in water until roots start to emerge

Landscape use: great groundcover or texture contrast in a shade garden

Light needs: no more than 4 hours of sun a day

Special features: resistant of nearly all diseases and pests

Watering instructions: likes consistently moist soil

Fertilizing instructions : use a slow release fertilizer in the early spring after the last frost of the season

Best time to plant: spring or fall

Best type of soil: clay or loam

Companion plants: hostas, cast irons, loropetalums

Toxicity level: toxic for humans and pets if ingested

Invasive species: no