fern

Giant Holly Fern

Cyrtomium fortunei 'Ulleung Island'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

24 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Cyrtomium fortunei, known as Japanese holly fern, is an evergreen fern characterized by its dark green, pinnate fronds that form a dense, arching clump, thriving in shaded, moist environments. The 'Ulleung Island' cultivar is distinguished by its compact growth habit and enhanced cold tolerance, making it well-suited for ornamental use in temperate gardens.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, evergreen foliage that enhances shaded areas and adds texture to garden beds.

Drought-tolerant once established, reduces need for frequent watering.

Supports local insects and maintains soil stability in shaded landscapes.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck spores or divisions into prepared soil in early spring
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil
Mist regularly to maintain humidity 🌱
Provide consistent moisture and indirect light
Mulch around base to retain soil moisture
Divide every 3-4 years for vigorous growth

Pro Tip

Keep soil consistently moist and provide indirect light for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist
Mulch to conserve moisture 🌱
Divide in early spring for rejuvenation

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch fronds ❌
Do not let soil dry out completely
Avoid heavy fertilization that can cause leaf burn

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 privacy screenMoisture-loving garden bed

Companion Plants

Hostas Astilbes Japanese maples Ferns Heucheras

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Giant Holly Fern questions

What zones can Giant Holly Fern grow in?

Giant Holly Fern is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Giant Holly Fern deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Giant Holly Fern, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Giant Holly Fern bloom?

Giant Holly Fern typically blooms in early spring through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Giant Holly Fern need full sun?

Giant Holly Fern does best in part shade.