Christmas Ferns have lustrous, dark green fronds arranged in a whorl, arching up gracefully in a vase-shape. The evergreen foliage provides year-round interest in the landscape, with its new silvery-green fronds sprouting in early spring just as the previous year's growth may begin to look tattered. To avoid weakening the clump, it is best to leave the older foliage until after the new growth unfurls and begins to grow. Easy to grow, widespread and adaptable, Christmas Ferns will grow well almost anywhere out of the sun. They are typically found growing in woodlands, dry shade, seasonally moist conditions, rocky soils and on slopes. These ferns are strongly clumping but spread moderately by offsets that can be transplanted after a season of growth. The fine, pinnate texture works as a nice backdrop for spring bulbs and woodland wildflowers, naturalized in a wooded setting or as a bold groundcover. It can also make a striking specimen in a shady rock garden. Sources:
Native Ferns, Moss, & Grasses by William Cullina
Growing and Propagating Wild Flowers by Harry R. Phillips
Missouri Botanical Garden
The Morton Arboretum-Black Walnut Toxicity
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Polystichum acrostichoides (Christmas Fern) - 1 gal
Christmas Fern
Plant Care & Installation Quick-Guide
Proper acclimation and installation are key to your plant's success. Please cross-reference these tips with your plant's specific ID tags:
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Pre-Planting: Store plants in a light-appropriate area on soil or grass (avoid hot concrete or asphalt) and water daily until the soil is saturated and the pot feels heavy. If temperatures drop below 30°F, move pots to a garage or cover them to prevent root freeze.
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Installation: Dig a hole matching the depth of the pot, remove the fabric container, and ensure the plant’s crown or root flare is level with the ground. Fill gaps with soil, water heavily, and apply 2 inches of mulch—keeping it clear of the stem.
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Ongoing Care: Check moisture daily by feeling 1–2 inches into the soil; water deeply at the base if the soil feels dry or warm. Newly installed plants require frequent watering (up to 3–4 times weekly in heat) until fully established, which can take a few months for perennials and up to two years for trees.