House holly fern - Cyrtomium falcatum (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images)

House holly fern

Also known as: Japanese holly fern, Japanese holly, Fish Tail

House holly fern (Cyrtomium falcatum) is also called the “Japanese Holly Fern.” It’s a popular indoor decorative plant. Its leaves look more like holly leaves than fern fronds.

Scientific classification

Species

House holly fern (Cyrtomium falcatum)

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1 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of House holly fern

Distribution of House holly fern

Distribution Map

House holly fern, a widely established fern, is native to several regions in East Asia. Globally, its presence spans numerous continents where it has been introduced, adapting to various environments. In cultivation, house holly fern enjoys popularity for its ornamental qualities and thrives outside its native range in both private and public gardens. While house holly fern may be seen as having a presence that is sometimes thought to be invasive in certain areas, for the most part, it is cultivated responsibly and its impact on ecosystems is typically minimal.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Brick or stone walls, rocky areas, mesic forests, coastal bluffs

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

The holly-like appearance and evergreen foliage of house holly fern create an interesting texture in woodland gardens, especially when planted en masse. Many people plant this species together in shady gardens sites with other varieties of holly to juxtapose and contrast the different and shapes of the plants.

Name Story

House holly fern: House holly fern gets its name from the pointy leathery fronds reminiscent of holly bushes. Its Latin name, Cyrtomium falcatum, comes from the Greek word kyrtos, which means arched and refers to the shape of the fronds. The specific epithet means sickle-shaped, also in reference to the shape of the fronds.

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Quickly Identify House holly fern

Pinnately compound fronds with oblong-ovate shape and curved appearance.

Distinct lack of lacy-like texture on fronds, suitable for various garden settings.

Short, angled rhizomes with dense covering of basal scales.

Dark green, coarse, leathery leaves growing up to 2 feet (60 cm) in length.

Slender, arching stem measuring up to 2 feet (60 cm) with consistent 0.2 inches (0.5 cm) thickness.

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Care Guide for House holly fern

Twice per week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: House holly fern thrives in moist, well-drained soil with consistent humidity, requiring watering twice a week. Best grown indoors, it prefers stable conditions and indirect light. As an evergreen, it retains its lush foliage year-round if adequately watered.

Fertilize: House holly fern requires high nitrogen fertilizers for healthy frond growth, with monthly applications during the growing season. Cease fertilization in fall and winter. Avoid over-fertilization by observing for salt buildup or browning fronds, and introduce fertilizers gradually to new pots for optimal health.

Pruning: For optimal growth, prune house holly fern in early spring by removing dead fronds and thinning clumps to improve air circulation and reduce disease risk. Regular maintenance encourages vigorous growth, ensuring house holly fern remains a lush and attractive addition to any garden.

Propagation: House holly fern propagates best in Spring and Autumn through division or spores. It has moderate difficulty, with healthy root growth indicating success. Maintaining adequate moisture is crucial for spore germination.

Repotting: Repot house holly fern every 2-3 years in a medium pot to support its arching fronds, which can reach 2 feet. Spring is ideal for repotting to boost growth. Maintain consistent moisture and provide shade to prevent stress from drought and excess sunlight.

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