Six hardy ferns

Athyrium niponicum var. pictum AGM

The elegant, grey-green fronds of the deciduous Japanese painted fern feature striking silver and purple markings. Good in container displays with heucheras. Needs neutral-to-acid, reliably moist soil. H&S: 20in (50cm).

Matteuccia struthiopteris AGM

The shuttlecock or ostrich fern is a vigorous plant whose upright, arching, deciduous fronds create a jungly feel. Tolerant of wet soil, it spreads by rhizomes so can be hard to control in small spaces. HxS: 5x5-8ft (1.5x1.5-2.5m).

Dryopteris erythrosora AGM

Also known as the autumn fern; coppercoloured fronds emerge in spring, then fade to green before russet tones return in autumn. Semi-evergreen, it can cope with some sun as long as the soil stays moist. HxS: 2ftx16in (60x40cm).

Polypodium vulgare

Often found growing in nooks and crannies in walls, and in tree cavities. The fronds of this native evergreen fern have a leathery texture. Droughttolerant, it needs shelter from cold winds. HxS: 1ftx39in (30x39in).

Polystichum setiferum ‘Herrenhausen’

A very pretty variety of our native soft shield fern. The evergreen lacy fronds make delicate mounds of foliage. Lovely at the edge of a shady border, and good in containers. H&S: 20in (50cm).

Asplenium scolopendrium AGM

Rather than dissected fronds, the hart’s tongue fern has lance-shaped, glossy blades with wavy edges. Evergreen, with a good winter presence. Will grow in dry shade, in neutral-to-alkaline soil. H&S: 20in (50cm).