Soft Shield Fern A hardy native Irish fern, Polystichum setiferum is a clump-forming, semi-evergreen, perennial fern with a spreading, rosette-like habit, ideal for growing under trees or in a shady, well-drained border. The elegant, soft, lance-shaped, finely divided fronds are mid-green, and persist almost until the new, crozier-like fronds unfurl in spring; cut away withered fronds to let the new growth shine through. Lovely with early spring bulbs. Soft shield fern holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Site: Tolerates exposureSoil: Cool, fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil, including limy soilsPosition: Full shade, partial shadeSeason of interest: Almost all yearHardiness: Fully hardyHeight: 3’ (90cm) Spread: 3’ (90cm)