Plant Calculator
Enter the approximate length and width of the area you will be planting and click 'Calculate' to determine how many Cyrtomium falcatum you will need.
*Correct and successful spacing is complex and depends on project conditions.
Cyrtomium falcatum
Fern, Holly
- Shade tolerant evergreen
- Textured, glossy foliage
- Cold-hardy and low maintenance
- Category: Seasonal, Tropical, and Perennial Color, Trees & Shrubs
- Hardiness Zone: 6a
- Height: 18-30 in
- Spread: 18-30 in
- Spacing: 18-24 in
Holly Fern (Cyrtomium falcatum) is a tough, shade-loving evergreen fern valued for its glossy, holly-like fronds that bring texture and rich green color to shaded beds, woodland borders, and containers. Native to parts of Asia but well-adapted to Central and East Texas, this fern thrives in humid, protected spaces where other plants may struggle. It’s an ideal choice for low-light understory plantings, particularly where winter resilience and year-round foliage are desired.
Holly Fern performs best in part to full shade and in moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. It is tolerant of slightly alkaline soils but does not like heavy, poorly drained clay. Once established, it is moderately drought-tolerant, though regular watering in dry periods will help maintain its appearance. Plants typically grow 18 to 30 inches tall and wide with an upright, arching habit. Space plants 18 to 24 inches apart in beds for solid coverage.
A common concern among gardeners is the appearance of spores on the undersides of mature fronds—these brown or black dots are a natural part of the fern’s reproductive cycle and are not a disease or insect infestation. They often appear in symmetrical rows and are harmless. Avoid overreacting with chemical sprays or pruning unless fronds are truly damaged.
In USDA Zones 7–10, Holly Fern is cold-hardy, but in harsh winters, fronds may die back and return from the roots in spring. Apply mulch in late fall to protect crowns and maintain moisture.