Botanical Name: Polystichum tsus-simense
Common Name(s): Korean Rock Fern, Tsus-simense Fern, Rock Shield Fern

The Korean Rock Fern is a hardy, evergreen fern native to the cool, shaded forests of East Asia, particularly Korea and Japan. This fern is known for its compact, low-growing habit and its deep green, leathery fronds that create a dense, tidy clump. Its arching fronds are a deep, glossy green and are often described as having a "shield-like" shape, which gives the plant an elegant, robust appearance. As a slow-growing fern, it typically reaches a height of about 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) with a similar spread, making it ideal for ground cover, containers, or adding texture to shady garden beds. Indoors, it can also thrive as a tabletop or hanging plant.

The Korean Rock Fern is well-suited to shaded or partially shaded locations, where it thrives in moist, well-draining soil. It’s an excellent choice for areas with dappled light, such as under trees or in corners of the garden that don’t receive direct sun. While it can tolerate a bit of morning sun, direct sunlight should be avoided, as it can scorch the delicate fronds, turning them brown or yellow.

This fern is particularly loved for its cold hardiness. In colder climates, it can be grown outdoors as a perennial, surviving frost and continuing to look beautiful even in winter. Indoors, it prefers temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) and will do best in cool, humid environments, although it is adaptable to a range of conditions.

This plant thrives in consistently moist and slightly acidic soil that drains well. It should be watered regularly, but care should be taken to avoid overwatering or letting the plant sit in stagnant water; this can lead to root rot. Like most ferns, this one is also sensitive to dry soil, so it’s important to keep the soil consistently moist, especially in warmer environments. Regular misting or placing the plant on a humidity tray can help maintain moisture in the air, as higher humidity levels are ideal for healthy fern growth.

This fern is relatively low-maintenance and doesn’t require much in the way of pruning or trimming. Simply remove any dead or damaged fronds to keep the plant looking tidy. It is a slow-growing fern, which means it doesn’t require frequent repotting and is well-suited for growing in containers, where it can stay compact for an extended period.

Note: The Korean Rock Fern is non-toxic to pets, making it a safe choice for households with cats and dogs.