It grows to 3' in moist or dry shade and is vigorous and easy to cultivate. A majestic fern reaching 3-4' in height with an erect habit. With leaves resembling those of the Locust tree, this makes a large and impressive specimen. Acid, moist soil in open shade or sun makes the proper environment. A robust grower.
Segments are thinner and more widely spaced than the species.
Native to N.E. United States. It produces new fronds in early summer and likes a more sunny and dry location than most ferns. Polystichum retrosepalaeceum Native to Japan, this rare evergreen fern has very distinctive downward pointing pinnae with a heavily scaly stalk. The lustrous fronds grow from an erect crown. Easy to grow in shade.