Polystichum neolobatum 'Yu Wa'
fern

Asian Saber Fern

Polystichum neolobatum 'Yu Wa'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

24 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Polystichum neolobatum, the Asian Saber Fern, is an evergreen fern with stiff, upright, glossy dark green fronds. The pinnae are sharply pointed, giving it a bold texture. This fern is noted for its stiff, glossy, holly-like texture and its tolerance of drier soils once established, compared to many other ferns.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides lush, evergreen foliage that adds texture and depth to shaded gardens.
Practical UsesHelps control soil erosion in woodland gardens.
Ecological BenefitsSupports native insect populations and adds biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck spores into moist, well-draining soil in shady location.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
  3. Transplant young plants in spring after frost risk passes.
  4. Apply mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
  5. Water consistently during dry periods for healthy growth.
  6. Divide clumps every 3–4 years to rejuvenate.

Pro Tip

Keep soil consistently moist and avoid direct sunlight for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
  • Apply mulch to conserve moisture
  • Divide in early spring to promote healthy growth

Don't

  • Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch fronds ❌
  • Do not let soil dry out completely
  • Refrain from over-fertilizing to prevent fungal issues

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shady woodland borderEvergreen groundcover

Companion Plants

Hosta Astilbe Ferns Heuchera Japanese Maple

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Asian Saber Fern questions

What zones can Asian Saber Fern grow in?

Asian Saber Fern is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Asian Saber Fern deer resistant?

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

When does Asian Saber Fern bloom?

Asian Saber Fern typically blooms in early spring through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Asian Saber Fern need full sun?

Asian Saber Fern does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Asian Saber Fern with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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