Southern Shield Fern
Thelypteris kunthii
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Jul 20, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
About Southern Shield Fern
Southern Shield Fern (Thelypteris kunthii) is a Florida native semi-evergreen fern producing tall, light green triangular fronds 3–4 feet tall in shaded to partly shaded gardens. Drought-tolerant once established and deer resistant, it is an excellent low-maintenance groundcover for moist, shaded spots in NE Florida landscapes. Starting at $9.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Non-flowering
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Semi-evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Clay, Moist, Well-drained
Care essentials
Grows best in part shade to full shade. Protect from hot afternoon sun in NE Florida, which can scorch the fronds. Ideal under tree canopy or on north- or east-facing exposures.
Appreciates consistently moist soil but shows good drought tolerance once established — an important trait for NE Florida sandy soils. Water regularly during dry spells; mulch heavily to retain soil moisture.
Tolerant of a wide range of soils including sandy, loam, and clay, provided moisture is adequate. Amend NE Florida sandy soils with compost to improve water retention. Apply a light balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring; this native fern generally needs minimal fertilization.
Similar needs
Arrowhead Plant
Shares 3 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, and moist.
Doghobble
Shares 3 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, and loam.
Japanese Painted Fern
Shares 3 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, and loam.
Peace Lily
Shares 3 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, and loam.
Peacock Ginger
Shares 3 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, and loam.
Swamp Twinflower
Shares 3 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, and sandy.
Common questions
Is Southern Shield Fern a good plant for St. Augustine?
Southern Shield Fern is a plant for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 3-4 feet × 2-3 ft.