Polystichum acrostichoides (Christmas Fern) is a lush semi evergreen woodland fern with graceful arching fronds that maintain their deep green color well into winter. It thrives in shady garden areas and provides lasting texture and structure even after many perennials have faded. Its clumping habit and tolerance for dry shade make it an excellent choice beneath trees or in naturalized plantings.
Height & Spread: 18 - 24 in x 24 - 36 in
Bloom Time: Non flowering
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Moist, humus rich, well drained soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; maintain soil moisture, especially in dry periods
Deer Resistance: Rarely browsed by deer due to coarse texture and unpalatable foliage
Native Status
Native to eastern North America, Polystichum acrostichoides (Christmas Fern) is well adapted to woodland conditions and supports local ecosystems.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- Provides cover and nesting habitat for woodland birds such as thrushes, towhees, and sparrows.
Beneficial Insects
- The base of fern clumps creates overwintering habitat for predatory beetles, lacewings, and parasitoid wasps that help control pest populations.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow for natural spread while maintaining clump distinction.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for shaded foundation plantings, woodland paths, and as a ground layer in native shade gardens.
Companion Plants
- Carex plantaginea (Seersucker Sedge) - Broad glossy leaves provide a contrasting leaf form and thrive in similar shady habitats.
- Epimedium x youngianum 'Niveum' - Delicate white flowers and low growing foliage enhance the woodland floor beneath taller ferns.
- Asarum canadense (Wild Ginger) - Heart shaped leaves and ground hugging habit pair well with fern fronds.
- Tiarella cordifolia (Foamflower) - Adds spring flowers and year round foliage interest in dappled woodland settings.
- Heuchera villosa 'Autumn Bride' - Soft, light green foliage and late blooming white flowers offer a textural and seasonal contrast.