Polypody Fern
Polypodium californicum
Care
part shade, full shade
low
well-drained; grows on rocks, tree trunks, banks
0–1ft tall , 0–1ft wide
Deciduous
Resistant
Friendly
California and Baja California on shaded rocks and mossy banks
Non-flowering; reproduces by spores
Summer deciduous; grows on rocks and moss; revives with fall rains
Care Guide
Planting
Plant your California Polypody in deep shade or partial shade - it loves the cool, moist conditions of north-facing slopes and canyon floors. This fern tolerates a wide variety of soils as long as drainage stays slow and moisture is present, so don't stress about amending heavily; just ensure water doesn't drain away too quickly. Space plants about 1 foot apart if you're creating a groundcover, since they spread slowly by rhizome. Fall or winter planting gives them time to establish before summer.
After Planting
Water weekly for the first summer once established, then cut back to just once a week or less during dry months - this fern actually prefers drier conditions in summer compared to winter. In the Bay Area's Mediterranean climate, expect your polypody to go deciduous during hot, dry summers and green up again when fall rains return; this is normal and not a sign something is wrong. The #1 mistake is overwatering: remember this native thrives on very low water once established, so resist the urge to keep it constantly moist. Pruning is minimal - just remove dead fronds as needed.
Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
Listed as Threatened under CESA; Declining populations in California
Species of Special Concern in California
Wildlife Supported
Birds
Forages among fronds for insects; uses as cover year-round on rocky habitats
Uses dense fern clumps for cover during breeding season March-July
Insects
Abundant in fern frond microhabitat; primary detritivores in fern community
Nests on fern fronds and surrounding rocky surfaces April-September
Reptiles
Shelters under fern fronds on rocky outcrops; active shelter year-round in coastal California
Amphibians
Uses damp fern cover near seepage areas for daytime refuge May-September