If plants begin to dry out, they will wilt and change color slightly as a warning they need more water. It is well suited for container production under shade cloth and can be treated like other shade perennials such as hostas. Other species There are many related species and most are hardy to at least Zone 7. Golden-scaled male fern has many forms and varieties that perform well in variable conditions. It is hardy to Zone 4, is semi-evergreen in Zone 8 and warmer and deciduous in colder areas.
Clumps are upright and very showy.
Shaggy shield fern is hardy to Zone 6, is native to China and reaches about 18 inches high. Its fronds are dark green, heavily textured and have a prominent, darker-green midvein. Broad buckler fern has many selections and is generally hardy to Zone 4. It is native to Europe and fronds average 2-3 feet long, but can reach 6 feet. They are generally easy to grow and can self sow in suitable conditions.