Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides) pol-ISS-tih-kum ak-roe-stik-OY-deez Genus:  Polystichum The Christmas fern is a particularly accommodating garden plant. It is adapted to a wide range of conditions, from very dry to moist, and is hardy to Zone 3. The plant’s 1- to 2-foot fronds are dependably evergreen—hence the common name—but they lie flat on the ground through the winter. Few hardy ferns have more beautiful deep, glossy green foliage. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Evergreen; adaptable; glossy foliage. Care:  Very adaptable, but likes full to part shade and fertile, humusy, well-drained soil. Propagation:  Sow spores at 59° to 61°F when ripe. Divide rhizomes in spring. Detach fronds bearing bulbils in autumn. Problems:  Infrequent. Crown rot may occur in poorly drained soils.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Part Shade to Full Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Native, Showy Foliage Foliage Color Evergreen Uses Beds and Borders, Ground Covers, Rock Garden, Shade Style Woodland Garden Tolerance Frost Tolerant Type Fern