This rhizomatous fern grows a thick trunk that is covered in dark brown scales and forms a small clump. It has dark green upright spreading divided fronds that produce plantlets at the tips and the fertile fronds release spores during summer. 

Hardiness zones 5 to 9

Polystichum proliferum is naturally found in Australia growing on the east coast from Queensland to Tasmania in cool moist positions on the coast and in the lower mountains. 

It prefers a well drained organic rich moist sandy soil in a semi shaded to shaded wind protected position and is frost tolerant but drought tender.

The Mother Shield Fern is grown for its foliage and spreading habit. It is planted along shaded moist garden borders or used in gully settings. It is also grown in patio pots and planter boxes and in the understorey in moist positions. It has a medium growth rate and establishes in 1 to 2 years. It tolerates a cooler climate and is used around water features for a creek-like effect. ID 662

Polystichum (po-LI-sti-kum) proliferum (pro-LIF-er-um)

Dryopteridaceae (DRY-op-TER-ee-DAY-see-ee)