The Plant Guide

Browse the Full Plant Guide

Japanese holly fern

Cyrtomium falcatum

sir-TOE-mee-um fal-KAY-tum Audio

Spreading, glossy, dark green fronds reach a length of 8 to 24 inches. This fern has holly-like pinnae and sori scattered over the underside of the pinnae.

Noteworthy CharacteristicsUsually found in moist, rocky areas or woodland in central and eastern Asia, this evergreen fern is deciduous in colder climates. Its distinctive fronds liven up a shady border or a rock garden. It also makes a handsome houseplant.

CareGrow in moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil. Where marginally hardy, plant in the shelter of a rock and mulch the crown with straw in winter.

PropagationSow spores in late summer. May also be grown from rooted bulbils collected from the base.

ProblemsCommon: fungal spots, root rot, and scale insects.

  • Genus : Cyrtomium
  • Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
  • Zones : 10, 11, 6, 7, 8, 9
  • Plant Width : 3 to 6 feet
  • Uses : Containers
  • Maintenance : Low
  • Moisture : Medium Moisture
  • Light : Partial Shade to Full Shade
  • Plant Type : Perennials
  • Characteristics : Showy Foliage

Related Plants

Related Articles

More From the Plant Guide

Winter Interest

Partial Shade

Browse the Full Plant Guide