Polystichum acrostichoides |
 |
 Loading Image(s)...
![]()
Photo Courtesy of Walters Gardens, Inc.
|
|
| | Common Name: Fern-Christmas |
One of the most dependable evergreen ferns, the Christmas Fern is native to eastern North America. Its common name comes from the fact that it is still green at Christmastime, when most of the rest of the garden is fast asleep. The individual pinnae resemble small Christmas stockings and the fronds are sometimes used for decorations.
This tough and undemanding fern forms a medium-sized clump of dark green, leathery fronds. In spring, attractive silvery gray fiddleheads emerge from the earth, poking through the old fronds which should then be cut back. Though it prefers some regular moisture, it will tolerate drought once established.
Uses: Plant en masse as a groundcover, or grow in containers, flower borders, or shady rock gardens.
Origin: Native Species
Characteristics:
Height:
18-24 Inches
Spread:
18-24 Inches
Foliage Color:
Green shades
Sun or Shade?:
Part shade (4-6 hrs. direct sun)
Full shade (< 4 hrs. direct sun)
Wet or dry?:
Low water needs
Average water needs
Need critter resistant plants?:
Deer resistant
Rabbit resistant
How fast should it grow?:
Medium
When should it bloom?:
Grown for its attractive foliage
How's your soil?:
Average Soil
Fertile Soil
Sweet or Sour Soil?:
Acidic Soil (pH < 7.0)
Neutral Soil (pH = 7.0)
What's your garden style?:
Container/Patio
Eclectic
The Christmas Fern is easy to grow in slightly acidic to neutral soil of average to rich fertility in partial to full shade. Once established, it will tolerate periods of drought. Protect from winter winds. Propagate from spores.