Species Japanese holly fern
green leaves with dark-green midribs on dark-brown branches

Japanese holly fern

Cyrtomium fortunei

The Japanese holly fern (Cyrtomium fortunei) is an amazing plant species that is perfect for any garden. It is evergreen in nature, and features dark green leaves on long petioles with small spines. The leaves turn bronze in the winter, creating a stunning look all year round. It is relatively slow-growing, making it perfect for those looking for a low-maintenance plant. The Japanese holly fern is also shade-tolerant, and is great for adding color and texture to any shady area. To top it all, it can be used indoors as a houseplant, adding beauty and atmosphere to any home.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 9

Flowers:

Flowers

Sun:

part shade,full shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Indoors:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Watering for Japanese holly ferns should occur about twice a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering. Aim to water to a depth of about 1 inch each time, using enough water to thoroughly saturate the soil. The soil should remain consistently moist but not soggy, so be sure to check the soil after watering to ensure it is moist but not overly saturated. If the soil has dried out completely, water more frequently in order to keep the soil consistently moist.

sunlight

Japanese Holly Ferns prefer bright indirect sunlight, so they should be placed near a sunny window and rotated every few days to ensure even light on the plant. During the summer, they should receive 3-4 hours of bright indirect sun daily, and in the winter they should receive 1-2 hours of bright direct sunlight. It is important to avoid direct sunlight in the hot summer months as this can cause sunburn and other damage to the plant.

pruning

Japanese holly ferns should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning should be light, removing only unsightly fronds and dead foliage. It is best to cut fronds at the base, as cutting them in the center may damage healthy, growing fronds. Remove dead foliage with scissors or pruning shears. Avoid pruning vigorously or cutting back too much as this can weaken the plant and cause its health to decline.

Hardiness Map