What: Polystichum neolobatum, commonly called the Asian saber fern, is relatively new to the Pacific Northwest but has quickly proven to be a strong performer for us. Its fronds are glossy green and leathery, held stiffly upright to create an open, vase-shaped plant that is distinctive in the garden. Its fronds are so stiff that they do not collapse in our occasional snows, but remain fully upright and evergreen through the winter.
Where: Place Asian saber fern with soft-textured ferns and plants with paler green foliage for best contrast. Its unusual growth habit makes it eye-catching as a single specimen or interesting when planed en masse. This fern grows best in rich moist to well-drained soil, but will tolerate sand or clay. It grows well in light to deep shade. Too much sun will cause the fronds to yellow.
Size: Grows to 2 by 2½ feet in 10 years.
Care: Once established, the fern will tolerate occasional watering during dry weather, but regular watering may be necessary for plants in sandy soils. Though it is evergreen, the fronds should be cut down in late February or March, before the new fronds emerge.
— greatplantpicks.org
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