polypodium

( ??? )

At-A-Glance Information

This genus of ferns needs partial to full shade and has varying water needs (depending on the species grown). They are suited well for wild gardens and in woodland areas they normally grow on mossy rocks or logs. All species have creeping rhizomes and shed fronds cleanly when new growth appears. 

polypodium Species and Varietals

The best growing zones for Polypodium vary depending on the species. For more information, see the species descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

Polypodium aureum (Phlebodium aureum) (Hare's Foot Fern)
This species grows well in zones 15-17, 19-24, H1 and H2. They are native to tropical America and reach 2.5 feet tall and 5 feet wide and has arching, blue-green fronds. This species needs regular water. Variety 'Mandaianum' , sometimes called Lettuce Fern, has frilly, wavy frond edges.

Polypodium californicum (California Polypody)
Best in zones 4-9, 14-17 and 22-24, this California and northwestern Mexico native has bright green fronds. It has a summer dormancy, and spreads slowly and widely. Great for slopes or under trees, this fern needs good drainage to perform well. Variety 'Sarah Lyman' has finely cut fronds and a clumping habit. 

Polypodium glycyrrhiza (Licorice Fern)
This fern does well in zones A3, 4-6, and 14-24, forming a mat a foot tall and spreading indefinitely. This fern is native to Alaska down through California on rocky, forested coastlines. Fronds are dark green. Great as a groundcover in woodland areas or in rock gardens. Can take full sun in coastal conditions. Needs little to regular water.

Polypodium scouleri (Leathery Polypody)
This species is native along coastlines from British Columbia down through Southern California. It does well in zones 4-6, 15-17 and 24. It is a slow grower, eventually reaching 6 inches tall and spreads indefinitely. Fronds are thick, glossy, and deep green, and are often found growing on trees or rocks. Can tolerate salt spray.

Polypodium vulgare (Common Polypody)
This native of Europe and Asia grows well in zones A2, A3, 2-9, and 14-17. It is found in woodlands on rocks and trees, and reaches a foot tall, spreading indefinitely. Fronds are medium green. 

Caring for Festuca

Propagation

Problems and Pests

Gallery

Camellias are great candidates to be grown as container plants on your patio.
A field of thea sinensis
Camellia hiemalis 'Shishi Gashira'

Videos

A video all about growing camellias successfully
Propagating camellias

Resources

The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 523, Polypodium
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or photos you’d like to add to the gallery, please let me know by sending me a message using the button below!
​