Holly Fern

The Holly Fern (Cyrtomium falcatum) is a smart choice for the indoors, especially during the winter months when we need heat our homes. As you know, forced air heat can have a drying effect and result low relative indoor humidity.

Unlike regular ferns that loves moisture, this plant thrives in warmer environments with less humidity and it does not shed. This type of fern is easy-to-care-for because it is tough and its leathery leaves adapt well to dry indoor air, as the leaves lose water slower than other ferns.

This popular ornamental plant originated from Japan and is known by the common name as the Japanese holly fern. It is a very attractive houseplant with beautiful fronds of lush, deep green, shiny foliage with spiked tips that reminds you of the Christmas holly plant.

The plant grows from a brown fur base to a height of 18 to 24 inches and forms a rosette of beautiful arching fronds.  For decorative purposes, you can display your plant on a table or plant in a terrarium.  Moreover, you can incorporate this handsome, festive-looking plant into your Christmas decorations to spread cheer during the holidays.

Holly Fern Care Tips

Light:  Plant can grow in low to medium light: however, place near a bright window for best results.

Water:  Keep soil evenly moist but never soggy, as this could cause root rot.  Water thoroughly, let drain, and water again when the soil feels slightly dry to touch.

Humidity:  Average room humidity (25% or more)

Temperature:  Normal to cool (50 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit).

Potting Soil:  The potting mix should be well aerated with 50% organic matter.

Re-potting:  In early spring when roots fill the current pot, plant may be moved into a pot one size larger, 

Fertilize:  Apply a water-soluble fertilizer or fish emulsion every 1 to 2 months.  

Propagation: Collect the spores that form underside of the fronds of matures plants and plant in damp peat moss in late winter or early spring. Keep the growing medium moist by covering it with glass or plastic. When new plants form they can be transplanted into pots. You can also propagate from plant divisions cut from the rhizomes.

Groom:  Keep your plant clean and attractive by dusting with a cloth or placing it under a shower of lukewarm water.

Pest:  Check plant for scale insects that of the undersides of the leaves and at leaflet axils. You can remove them by scraping them off or use appropriate insecticide.

In addition to being a handsome, eye-catching plant, it is also non toxic to pets.

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