Christmas Fern
Evergreen fern reaching 30-60 cm tall. Features dark green, leathery fronds with bristle-tipped pinnae. Prefers moist, well-drained soils and partial to full shade. Tolerates dry shade once established. Provides winter interest and cover for small wildlife. Deer-resistant. Suitable for woodland gardens, shaded slopes, and as a low-maintenance groundcover in difficult shady areas. Native to eastern North America.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Brown (spores)
Bloom Time: N/A (Fern)
Sun Requirements: Shade to Part-Sun
Moisture: Moist-Drained
Phenology: Evergreen fern. New fiddleheads emerge May. Fertile fronds develop summer, turning brown with spores. Previous year's fronds remain green through winter.
Wildlife Value: Provides year-round cover for ground-dwelling wildlife; nesting sites for ground birds; deer resistant
Habit Over Time: Forms dense, evergreen rosettes that slowly expand from the center. Individual plants maintain clear boundaries and do not spread aggressively. The architectural form provides strong structure throughout the year, while allowing enough space between plants for complementary species. New fronds emerge in a dramatic flush in spring.
Height: Medium (1-2 feet)