Species
Polystichum tsus-simenseTsushima Holly Fern1 other cultivar
The Story
Plant Bio
A small, evergreen fern with finely divided, dark green, leathery fronds. It forms a dense, vase-shaped clump, ideal for shaded rock gardens, woodland settings, or as a groundcover.
This variety, 'Mayebarae', is particularly dwarf and compact, with a very slow-growing habit. Its delicate, lacy texture adds fine detail to container plantings and small-scale gardens.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Fern
Height
15 inches
Width
15 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Requires consistent moisture
Humidity
Prefers high humidity
Lifespan
Many years
Native To
Japan, Korea, China
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck spores or divisions into moist soil in early spring.
- Keep soil consistently moist for healthy growth.
- Mist fronds regularly to increase humidity.
- Provide partial to full shade for optimal health.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture.
- Transplant in early spring or fall for best results.
Pro Tip
Ensure soil remains moist and provide shade for best growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
- Prune dead fronds in early spring
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years
Don't
- Avoid full sun exposure ❌
- Don't let soil dry out completely
- Avoid heavy, compacted soils
- Don't prune in late fall
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Tsusima Holly Fern questions
What zones can Tsusima Holly Fern grow in?
Tsusima Holly Fern is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Tsusima Holly Fern deer resistant?
Yes — Tsusima Holly Fern is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Tsusima Holly Fern bloom?
Tsusima Holly Fern typically blooms in non-blooming through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Tsusima Holly Fern need full sun?
Tsusima Holly Fern does best in part shade.
More Polystichum to compare
Western Sword Fern
Polystichum munitum
Christmas Fern
Polystichum acrostichoides
Soft Shield Fern
Polystichum setiferum
Makino's Holly Fern
Polystichum makinoi
Japanese Tassel Fern
Polystichum polyblepharum
Plumosomultilobum Soft Shield Fern
Polystichum setiferum 'Plumosomultilobum'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Tsusima Holly Fern with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.