Christmas Fern (Polystichum acrostichoides): An Evergreen Woodland Gift

The woodland forest in winter is a study in death and decay, its floor strewn with ocher and brown leaves that crunch underfoot. Along the path, Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides) breaks through, offering a respite and glimmer of spring's rebirth—nature's holiday gift.

Botanical name: Polystichum acrostichoides
Common name: Christmas fern
Origin: Eastern U.S. and Canada
Hardiness: Hardy to -40°F (USDA zones 3–8; find your zone)

Light requirement: Partial to full shade
Water requirement: Consistently moist soil best for optimal growth, though in nature it often grows in dry soil on hillsides.
Mature size: Up to 2 feet tall, spread up to 3 feet

Benefits and tolerances: Resists deer, rabbits, insects, disease; one of the more drought-resistant ferns but grows well in wet soil; well-behaved.
Seasonal interest: Evergreen; fronds deepen in color as season progresses.
When to plant: Spring or fall preferable.

Distinguishing Traits

This evergreen native begins growth in early to mid-spring, sending up fuzzy, tightly curled silver fronds that unfurl to light green. Coloration deepens to a very glossy dark green. It never goes dormant, but fronds may lie flat in cold, snowy weather. These can be removed in mid-spring once new upright growth matures.

Christmas fern grows in a cascading vase shape with glossy, leathery, lance-shaped fronds, frequently found on slopes near creeks.

How to Use It

Since it naturally grows near rocky outcroppings on forest floors, it's an appropriate companion for boulders in woodland or Asian-style gardens. Its upright habit pulls the eye upward, contrasting with rounded boulders and lower spreading plants.

Visual impact greatly increases when planted en masse—consider groupings of 10 or more. Its unique texture also creates a "living tapestry" when woven with similar-height plants of different shapes, textures, and colors, adding interest to the predominantly green woodland floor.

Planting Notes

Best in moisture-retentive soil; established plants are somewhat drought-tolerant. If planting in drier areas, water regularly several times a week until established. Greatly benefit from mushroom compost or composted cow manure in the planting hole. In consistently wet soil, raise rhizome slightly above soil level and plant at an angle to reduce crown rot risk.

Well-behaved, spreading slowly; rhizomes can be divided in early spring if desired.

More:
Ferns: A Shade Gardener's Best Friend
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