Our pick of the best

BEST FOR DRY SHADE DRYOPTERIS FELIX-MAS

The male fern tolerates deep shade and dry conditions; fiddle-back fronds. H1.2m (up to 4ft) S1m (3ft 3in)

BEST FOR DEEP SHADE ASPLENIUM SCOLOPENDRIUM

Very good on the shady side of walls, the hart’s-tongue has long leathery leaves with wavy edges. H and S60cm (2ft)

BEST FOR RICH SOIL DRYOPTERIS WALLICHIANA

This Himalayan form combines vivid-green fronds with black-bristled stems. Prefers good soil. H90cm (3ft) S75cm (32in)

BEST FOR WELLDRAINED SOIL POLYPODIUM CAMBRICUM

‘RICHARD KAYSE’ Best in part shade, its mats of serrated foliage look like bright green snowflakes. H45cm (18in) S1m (3ft 3in)