Polystichum Acrostichoides

Available mid May

Polystichum Acrostichoides photo courtesy of Sally and Andy Wasowski
Christmas Fern

The Christmas Fern (Polystichum acrostichoides) is a very common eastern North American native, and is especially loved because it is evergreen even in severe winters. While not as showy as some others, this fern makes up for it with its neat habit, easy culture, and its lustrous, nearly evergreen leaves.

  • Height: 30-61 cm (12-24 in)
  • Spread: 30-61 cm (12-24 in)
  • Cold Hardiness: Zone 3-9
  • Sun or Shade: part to full shade
  • Bloom Time: does not flower
  • Leaf Colour: green grey
  • Bloom Colour: does not flower
  • Critter Resistance: deer and rabbits

Growing and Maintenance Tips

Christmas Ferns grows best in organically rich, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils in part shade to full shade. Consider planting the rhizome at an angle to help combat potential crown rot problems which can occur in poorly drained soils. Although it spreads by underground runners this fern will not spread or naturalize, however clumps will increase in size over time.

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