Rock Polypody
Polypodium virginianum
Last reviewed: August 2026
Toxicity unknown
Rock Polypody (Polypodium virginianum) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 25 more states
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 437 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
Find rebates in your areaBrowse plants for this ecoregion
Rock polypody is a small evergreen fern that forms low, spreading mats of delicate fronds. It naturally grows on rocks and in crevices, making it excellent for rock gardens and shaded areas with good drainage. This hardy native fern stays green through winter, providing year-round ground cover in challenging spots.
In an HOA neighborhood
Rock Polypody is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.
Wildlife value
As a fern, it does not attract pollinators but provides shelter and nesting material for small wildlife. The evergreen fronds offer winter cover for insects and small creatures.
Common questions
- How much sun does Rock Polypody need?
- Rock Polypody grows best in part shade conditions.
- Where is Rock Polypody native?
- Rock Polypody (Polypodium virginianum) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 25 more states, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Rock Polypody HOA-friendly?
- Rock Polypody is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Rock Polypody? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz