Tassel Fern

About this plant

The Tassel Fern (Polystichum polyblepharum) is a sophisticated and highly prized evergreen fern, celebrated for its unique, glossy fronds that emerge in a distinctive shuttlecock shape before gracefully arching outward. Each new frond unfurls artfully, resembling a tassel, giving this plant its charming common name. Its dark green, finely divided foliage adds a lush, architectural element to woodland gardens, shaded borders, and container plantings. Adapting well to a variety of soil types, this fern is a low-maintenance superstar once established, providing year-round visual interest and a touch of refinement to any discerning landscape. Ideal for creating a serene, verdant understory, the Tassel Fern pairs beautifully with hostas, hellebores, and other shade-loving perennials, offering a consistent pop of deep green where other plants might falter in lower light conditions.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Easily grown in moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch. Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer. Remove any damaged or old fronds as needed for aesthetics.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.