Polystichum proliferum, commonly known as mother shield fern is an Australian endemic fern. The genus name Polystichum is derived from Greek poly - many, and stichos - rows referring to the many rows of sori. The species name is derived from Latin, Proli – offspring and fer - bearing referring to the proliferous buds, a prominent feature of the species.
Polystichum proliferum is a terrestrial fern that can grow to 130 cm in height. The rhizome and frond bases are covered in persistent scales which ...