fern

Southern Shield Fern

Thelypteris ovata 'Austin City Limits'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

24 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Consistently moist

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southeastern United States

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Thelypteris kunthii, commonly known as Southern Shield Fern, is a deciduous to semi-evergreen fern native to the southeastern United States. It forms colonies via creeping rhizomes, featuring upright, arching, light green fronds. The cultivar Austin City Limits is notable for its vigorous growth habit and its ability to adapt well to shaded garden areas, adding a bold, textured presence to woodland or shaded borders.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Creates lush, green texture in shaded garden areas, enhancing visual appeal.

Provides ground cover that suppresses weeds and retains soil moisture.

Supports native pollinators and provides habitat for small wildlife.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck spores into moist, shaded soil in early spring.
Keep soil consistently moist for optimal growth.
Mist fronds regularly to maintain humidity.
Transplant young ferns in early spring or fall.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide clumps every 2-3 years to encourage healthy growth.

Pro Tip

Ensure consistent moisture and avoid direct sunlight for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to retain soil moisture
Provide shade during hot summer days
Divide clumps every few years

Don't

Allow soil to dry out completely ❌
Expose to direct, harsh sunlight ❌
Over-fertilize which can scorch fronds ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderMoisture-loving garden bed

Companion Plants

Hostas Astilbes Japanese Irises

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Southern Shield Fern questions

What zones can Southern Shield Fern grow in?

Southern Shield Fern is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Southern Shield Fern deer resistant?

Yes — Southern Shield Fern is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Southern Shield Fern bloom?

Southern Shield Fern typically blooms in mid-summer through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Southern Shield Fern need full sun?

Southern Shield Fern does best in part shade.