Botanical Name: Cyrtomium falcatum

Common Name: Holly Fern

Hardiness Zone: Perennial in Most Climates (USDA Zones 6–9)

Size: 18–24" Tall × 18–24" Spread

Growth Habit: Upright, Arching, Clump-Forming Habit

Sunlight: Partial Shade to Full Shade; Tolerates Morning Sun

Soil: Moist, Well-Drained, Organic-Rich Soil

Water Needs: Moderate; Consistent Moisture Preferred

Bloom Season: Non-Flowering Fern (Grown for Foliage)

Fertilizer: Light Feeding in Spring

Features: Glossy Dark Green Evergreen Fronds, Heat Tolerant, Deer Resistant

Uses: Shade Gardens, Foundation Plantings, Containers, Woodland Gardens, Evergreen Structure

Patent: ❌ Not Patented

Propagation: ✔ Propagation Allowed

More About Holly Fern

Holly Fern is a classic evergreen fern valued for its bold, glossy, holly-like fronds that bring structure and polish to shaded gardens. The leathery, arching foliage has a refined, almost tropical look, making it stand out from softer, feathery fern types.

Unlike many ferns, Holly Fern tolerates heat, humidity, and dry shade far better than expected once established. In mild climates, it remains evergreen year-round, providing dependable structure even in winter landscapes.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, Holly Fern has proven to be exceptionally reliable in partial to full shade with average moisture. It forms neat, upright clumps, resists pest pressure, and holds its deep green color through seasonal changes.

We especially appreciate its versatility. It works beautifully in foundation plantings, shaded borders, containers, and woodland gardens where a more architectural evergreen is needed. Deer typically avoid it, making it a strong choice for problem areas.

Holly Fern vs. Other Ferns

Holly Fern brings structure and toughness to the fern lineup. It’s far less delicate than Maidenhair Ferns and better suited for outdoor shade. Compared to Button and Lemon Button Ferns, it’s bolder and more upright, with leathery fronds that feel substantial. The fronds emerge stiff and well-spaced, giving the plant a clean, architectural look even when young. Against Autumn Ferns, Holly Fern stays darker and more consistent in color. It reads as evergreen and dependable.

In the garden, Holly Fern excels where conditions aren’t perfect. It tolerates cold, shade, and less-than-ideal moisture better than most. Once established, it requires very little intervention beyond occasional cleanup of older fronds. Compared to Asparagus Ferns, it’s slower and more controlled. It’s not flashy, and it won’t give you seasonal color shifts, but it provides year-round structure. I use Holly Fern when I need something that holds the garden together through Winter.