Southern shield fern is the fern for people who think they can't grow ferns in the South. Its bright yellow-green fronds reach 3 to 4 feet, it tolerates real sun where most ferns scorch, and it spreads steadily into a lush colony.

It's happiest with some moisture but handles Birmingham heat and ordinary garden soil with ease, in anything from sun to bright shade. Deer and rabbits leave it alone. Use it to fill big shady gaps, soften foundations, or naturalize under high pines.