Leathery Polypody
Polypodium Scolopendria
Overview
Leathery Polypody, or Polypodium scolopendria, is an evergreen fern featuring broad, waxy fronds up to 18 inches long. Hardy in zones 9-11, it thrives in partial to full shade and well-drained, humus-rich soil. This low-maintenance ground cover prefers moderate moisture, with drought tolerance once established. Its unique texture and arching shape make it ideal for tropical and subtropical underplantings, offering year-round visual interest.\n
Culture
- Sun
- Half, Shade
- Water
- Medium
- USDA zones
- 6–11
Shape & size
Classification
- Family
- Polypodiaceae
See full data, regional cultivation notes, full-resolution photos, and design tools. Build a client presentation around this plant.
Start your 14-day trialPhotos (46)
























Related plants

Brilliance Autumn Fern
Dryopteris Erythrosora 'Brilliance'
Half · Zones 5–9

Dainty Buttons™ Fern
Nephrolepis x
Half

Netted Chain Fern
Woodwardia Areolata
Deep Shade · Zones 4–10

Maidenhair Fern
Adiantum Capillus-Veneris
Deep Shade · Zones 5–9

Ribbon Dance™ Silver Staghorn Fern
Platycerium veitchii
Full

Himalayan Maidenhair
Adiantum venustum
Deep Shade · Zones 5–9