Common Polypody | Polypodium vulgare
The ancient forest classic
Grown by Caroline
Enfield
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Common Polypody
Polypodium vulgare
- Polypodium vulgare, or Common Polypody, is a resilient and adaptable fern species that can thrive in various conditions. Its compact, leathery fronds feature intricately lobed leaflets, creating a charming and textured appearance. This fern's ability to grow on rocks, walls, or in crevices makes it a versatile choice for adding a touch of greenery to unconventional spaces or for naturalizing in woodland gardens.
- Perfect as a groundcover or for underplanting trees and shrubs, Polypodium will spread naturally without being invasive
- A hardy, low maintenance perennial plant which grows up to 30cm high and is unbothered by pests and diseases
- Perfect for cottage and rock gardens, beds and borders
- No pruning needed
- A woodland classic which loves a position in dappled shade and is drought tolerant when mature
What to expect
Supplied as
Eventual height
Eventual spread
Habit
Hardiness
Spacing
Will this grow in my garden?
Can I grow this in a pot?
Yes, the Common Polypody can be grown in a pot with well-draining, moisture-retentive compost, kept in a sheltered spot.
How big does it get?
The Common Polypody fern usually grows to a height and spread of 30 cm.
How much sunlight does this need?
The Common Polypody thrives in partial to full shade.
What kind of soil does this plant prefer?
Common Polypody prefers a well-drained, humus-rich soil, often thriving in leaf mould and partial shade.
How much watering does this plant need?
The Common Polypody requires regular watering to keep its compost moist, but it must be well-draining to prevent root rot.
Will this plant need pruning?
The Common Polypody requires only the removal of dead or damaged fronds in early spring.
How hardy is this plant?
Polypodium vulgare is fully hardy (H7), withstanding temperatures below -20°C throughout the UK.
The wider garden
Enfield
Meet Caroline
A deep dive into sustainable gardening
Nestled amongst wildlife meadows and resident ducks, Caroline’s award winning pond plant nursery in Enfield has been making a splash since 1965, when they invented the (recycled, obvs) aquatic basket. Sixty years and multiple RHS gold medals later, they’re still surprising us with new varieties every year!
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