With fronds that remain evergreen year-round, Christmas Fern will even look good at Christmas time! While not directly used by pollinators, Christmas Fern is a great native groundcover for shady spots, providing a soft landing habitat for pupating moths and butterflies.
Pollinator Type
Caterpillars
Plant Type
Herbaceous perennial
Zone
3 to 9
Height
1 to 2 ft.
Spread
1 to 3 ft.
Light
Shade, Partial Shade
Moisture Requirement
Medium Soil
Bloom Color
NA
Bloom Time
NA
Design Considerations
Christmas Fern is a great substitute for hostas in a lightly shaded garden. Stays green year-round.
Care and Maintenance
Prefers soil with high amounts of organic matter.
Pest and Diseases
Crown rot can occur when soil is not well-drained.
Establishment and Propagation
Start with a potted plant.
Commercial Availability
Commonly available.
Alternative Plant Selections
Sensitive Fern, Ostrich Fern
Native Status
Illinois native statewide.
Fall Color
Green foliage throughout fall.
Growth habit
Perennial fern that grows in loose clumps of evergreen foliage.
Number of Caterpillars that Use this as a Host Plant
