The Story
Plant Bio
Cyrtomium fortunei, commonly known as the Japanese holly fern, is a hardy evergreen perennial fern native to East Asia. It is known for its attractive glossy leaves and ability to thrive in shady areas.
This fern is particularly valued for its ability to tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, and is also deer resistant.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Fern
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Consistent moisture
Humidity
Prefers high humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Asia, Pacific Islands
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a shaded location with well-draining, rich soil.
- Tuck rhizomes in soil 1-2 inches deep, spacing them 12 inches apart.
- Mist cuttings or divisions with water regularly to maintain humidity.
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during first year.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Provide consistent moisture and avoid direct sunlight for optimal fern health.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Keep soil consistently moist 🌱
- Place in partial to full shade
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
- Fertilize lightly in spring
- Monitor for pests regularly
Don't
- Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch fronds ❌
- Do not let soil dry out completely
- Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn
- Do not disturb rhizomes unnecessarily
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
Fortune's Holly Fern questions
What zones can Fortune's Holly Fern grow in?
Fortune's 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 Fortune's Holly Fern deer resistant?
Yes — Fortune's Holly Fern is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
Does Fortune's Holly Fern need full sun?
Fortune's Holly Fern does best in part shade.
More Cyrtomium to compare
Giant Holly Fern
Cyrtomium fortunei 'Ulleung Island'
Japanese Holly Fern Green Tea
Cyrtomium fortunei 'Green Tea'
Japanese Holly Fern
Cyrtomium fortunei var intermedium
Hybrid Holly Fern
Cyrtomium x faltideum
Large-leaf Holly Fern
Cyrtomium macrophyllum
Fortunately Fortune's Holly Fern
Cyrtomium fortunei 'Fortunately'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Fortune's 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.