Soft Shield Fern 'Congestum Cristatum' (Polystichum setiferum 'Congestum Cristatum')

Overview

'Congestum Cristatum' is a dwarf, crested cultivar of Soft Shield Fern with congested, overlapping pinnae and crested tips, forming a tight, ruffled mound.

Taxonomy

Description

Fronds are 15–30 cm long, bipinnate, with pinnae that are congested (closely spaced) and crested at the tips. The overall habit is a dense, ruffled mound. Stipes have brown scales.

Habitat and Cultivation

Prefers moist, humus-rich soil in shade. Hardy in USDA zones 5–8. The compact, crested form is ideal for rock gardens, troughs, and small spaces.