Polystichum polyblepharum - Japanese Tassel Fern
Pot Size: 5.25 Inch Square Pot
Christmas fern is a delight to have in the shade garden all year round. The leathery, dark green fronds form neat, medium-sized clumps. The slightly glossy fronds often hold up well enough to cut and use for holiday decorating, hence its common name. Very attractive silvery gray fiddleheads appear in spring. A well-behaved species that combines well with other ferns. Native to the eastern U.S.
Uses: Borders, Containers, Cottage Gardens, Edging, Erosion Control, Ground Cover, Landscapes, Mass Planting, Naturalizing, Retaining Walls, Rock Gardens, Slopes, Woodland Gardens
Critter Resistance: Deer, Rabbit
Notable Features: Tolerates Dense Shade, Drought Tolerant, Winter Interest, Native
Growth Habit: Fountain-Shaped Clump
Homeowner Growing Tips: Grow in light shade to full shade, in acidic, moist, well-drained soil. Amend with compost before planting. Prefers cool sites; tolerates dappled sun if soil stays moist, and tolerant of periodic dry soil once established in the shade. Quite tolerant of shallow or rocky soils, but not clay. Avoid poorly drained soils; good for fighting erosion on shady hillsides. Water reguarly the first season or two to establish. In spring, remove any winter damaged foliage.