Polystichum acrostichoides: Christmas Fern

Christmas Fern – Adaptable Evergreen Native

Polystichum acrostichoides is a particularly accommodating garden fern, adapted to conditions from very dry to moist, hardy to Zone 3. Its 1–2 foot fronds are dependably evergreen (hence the name), lying flat in winter. Few hardy ferns offer more beautiful deep, glossy green foliage.

Noteworthy Characteristics

• Evergreen, glossy foliage
• Highly adaptable (dry to moist)
• Native to eastern North America
• Frost tolerant

Culture

Prefers full to part shade and fertile, humusy, well-drained soil. Propagate by sowing spores at 59–61°F when ripe, dividing rhizomes in spring, or detaching fronds with bulbils in autumn. Crown rot may occur in poorly drained soils.

Uses

Excellent for beds, borders, ground covers, rock gardens, and shade in woodland gardens.