Polypodium vulgare

common polypody

Eventual height & spread

Polypodium vulgare

common polypody

  • 9cm pot
  • £9.99
  • In stock (shipped within 2-3 working days)
  • 3 × 9cm pots
  • £23.99 £8.00 each
  • In stock (shipped within 2-3 working days)
  • 6 × 9cm pots
  • £39.99 £6.67 each
  • In stock (shipped within 2-3 working days)
  • 2 litre pot
  • £19.99
  • In stock (shipped within 2-3 working days)
  • 3 × 2 litre pots
  • £44.99 £15.00 each
  • In stock (shipped within 2-3 working days)
Delivery options
  • Standard £5.99
  • Named Day £10.99
  • Position: full sun or partial or full shade
  • Soil: moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil
  • Rate of growth: average
  • Hardiness: fully hardy

A tough, low-maintenance and evergreen fern that thrives in both dry and damp shade, making it a versatile choice for woodland gardens, under trees, or even as ground cover in tricky spots.

Its deeply cut, leathery fronds are dark green with a slight sheen, adding texture and interest throughout the year.

Spreading slowly via creeping rhizomes, Polypodium vulgare is well-suited to naturalising in shaded borders, rockeries, or even on walls and tree trunks in wetter climates.


  • Garden care:
    For best results, plant in partial to full shade in well-drained soil, though it will tolerate a range of conditions,

    Water regularly to keep the soil moist until the plant is fully established, then reduce watering as it becomes more drought-tolerant once established.

    Protect this common polypody fern from cold, drying winds by positioning it in a sheltered spot, such as under trees or along shaded walls. In early spring, remove any dead or damaged fronds to encourage fresh new growth.
    • Humans/Pets: Harmful if eaten

    Goes well with