Fern Christmas

Christmas Fern

Polystichum acrostichoides — commonly called Christmas Fern — is a hardy, evergreen fern (perennial) valued for its glossy, dark green fronds and year-round presence. It forms a low, clumping habit with leathery, arching fronds that remain green through winter, often laying flat under snow and re-emerging in spring. New fronds emerge upright in spring, creating a layered, textured look in shaded landscapes.

Mature Size:
Width: 18–24 in
Height: 12–24 in

USDA Zones: 3a–9b
Light: Partial shade to full shade
Soil: Moist, well-drained, rich soils; tolerant of dry shade once established
Water: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but adaptable

Wildlife: Provides cover for small wildlife; generally not favored by deer

Features & Landscape Uses:
Form: Clumping, evergreen fern with arching fronds
Provides year-round structure and winter interest
Excellent for woodland gardens, slopes, and groundcover
Tolerates dry shade once established
Native plant that supports woodland ecosystems

Maintenance:
Remove old or damaged fronds in early spring as new growth emerges
Low maintenance and long-lived
Divide clumps as needed to propagate

Plant type

Fern

Height

12-24"

Width

18-24"

Hardiness zones

3–9

Sunlight

Partial Shade

Growth rate

Fast

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Soil

Loamy, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Mass Planting

Shape

Clumping, Fan-shaped

Fragrant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No