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Lesser Holly Fern

Name: Lesser Holly Fern
Brand: Cyrtomium
Availability: InStock

Cyrtomium lonchitoides

$18.40

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

18 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Consistent moisture

Humidity

High humidity preferred

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

An evergreen fern forming a clump of arching, pinnate fronds. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil in shaded locations and is known for its robust, leathery foliage. Distinguished by its narrow, lance-shaped, glossy dark green pinnae (leaflets) that resemble holly leaves, though more slender than its relative, Cyrtomium falcatum. It is also noted for its cold hardiness.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds lush, evergreen foliage to shaded gardens, creating a vibrant, textured landscape.

Provides ground cover that suppresses weeds and retains soil moisture.

Supports local biodiversity by offering habitat and food for beneficial insects.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Plant Delights Nursery

<1 Gal Pot1+ Gal Pot

In Stock$18.40

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck rhizomes into well-draining soil with organic matter.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity for propagation.
Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Provide filtered shade to prevent leaf scorch.
Fertilize with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer in spring.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Use shady, moist locations with rich, well-draining soil for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Keep soil consistently moist 🌱
Provide indirect light or partial shade
Mulch to retain moisture and regulate temperature
Use organic compost annually
Monitor for pests regularly

Don't

Avoid direct, harsh sunlight ❌
Do not let soil dry out completely
Avoid over-fertilizing
Do not disturb roots unnecessarily
Refrain from poor drainage, which can cause root rot

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shady woodland borderEvergreen groundcoverMoisture-loving garden bed

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Astilbe Ligularia Heuchera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Lesser Holly Fern questions

What zones can Lesser Holly Fern grow in?

Lesser Holly Fern is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Lesser Holly Fern deer resistant?

Yes — Lesser Holly Fern is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

Does Lesser Holly Fern need full sun?

Lesser Holly Fern does best in part shade.