Polystichum polyblepharum
 |
JAPANESE TASSEL FERN
syn. P. setosum
Family: Dryopteridaceae
Pronounced: pol-ISS-tih-kum
GROWING GUIDE
Geographic Origin:
Korea, Japan.
Plant Group:
Ferns.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: 4-9, 14-24.
USDA zones: 6-8.
Heat zones: 8-5.
Mature size:
Height: 24-32 inches (60-80 cm).
Width: 36 inches (90 cm).
Leaf attributes:
Evergreen, dark green, lance-shaped, 2 pinnate fronds to 32 inches long.
Light:
Shade.
Soil:
Moist, humus rich, well-drained soil.
Propagation Methods:
Sow spores when ripe.
Pruning Methods:
Prune dead or damaged fronds in early spring.
Rainy Side Notes
Every shade garden should host at least one, if not a colony, of this stunning fern. Polystichum polyblepharum is one of my favorites for the shady side of the garden. New fronds unfurl in a light, fresh, spring green; later, as the fronds mature, they turn a darker shade. Its homespun name, tassel fern, comes from the frond’s unique unfurling habits. After they unwind, the tips hang down, giving it a resemblance of a tassel; however, the these eventually straighten out. The fern is an excellent source for greens in the cutting garden, making a fine backdrop for flowers in the vase.
Polyblepharum means many eyelashes, referring to the copper-brown hairs that grow along the stem. Chosen in 2003 as a Great Plant Pick, the tassel fern is an excellent choice for the rainy side of the Pacific Northwest.
Debra Teachout-Teashon
Photographed in author's garden.
Tell a friend about this page!
Questions, comments or suggestions? Would you like to communicate with other Pacific Northwest gardeners? Please join us on our forum.