Christmas fern keeps its green fronds through winter, forming slowly enlarging clumps with silvery new growth unfurling in spring beneath woodland shade.
- Height
- 30–92 cm / 1–3 ft
- Spread
- 30–92 cm / 1–3 ft
- Light
- Shade / Partial shade
- Soil moisture
- Dry / Moist, well-drained
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Maintenance
- Low
- USDA zones
- 3a–9b
Planting
Choose partial or full shade and soil rich in organic matter, with dry to medium moisture and good drainage. Groups can help cover a shaded slope.
Care
Clumps expand gradually. Check winter drainage around the crown, since lingering moisture can lead to rot.
Planting Christmas fern?
Find a landscaper nearby to help with planting and establishment.
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Sources & photo credit
Plant reference: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. Content checked . Flowering seasons vary with local climate; USDA zones describe winter cold tolerance.
- Christmas fern: Photo by Cranbrook Science · CC BY 2.0. Resized, converted to WebP and cropped for display.
- Korean rock fern: Andrey Zarkikh · CC BY 2.0. Resized, converted to WebP and cropped for display.
- Soft shield fern: Ashley Basil · CC BY 2.0. Resized, converted to WebP and cropped for display.
- Western sword fern: Kurt Stüber · CC BY-SA 3.0. Resized, converted to WebP and cropped for display.