Fern
Holly Fern
Cyrtomium falcatum
Monrovia® varieties
Varieties We Carry
StegosaurusCyrtomium falcatumMonrovia
Sizes & Pricing
#2MonroviaFrom$44.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Jun 19.
LightPart Shade, Full Shade
WaterModerate
Mature size1-2 feet × 2-3 feet
About Holly Fern
Cyrtomium falcatum, holly fern, is an East Asian fern with bold, arching fronds of glossy, deep green, holly-shaped pinnae that give it a distinctly leathery and lustrous appearance. More tolerant of dry conditions and lower humidity than most ferns, it is a reliable choice for shaded borders, containers, and indoor spaces. Starting at $44.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Non-flowering
- Flower Color
- Non-flowering
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Loam, Acidic, Well-drained, Organic-rich
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Good planting window.
Active growing season.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
Holly fern thrives in partial to full shade — ideal under the canopy of live oaks or along the north side of structures in NE Florida. Avoid direct afternoon sun, which scorches the glossy fronds.
Water
Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained; wet, waterlogged soil causes root rot. More drought tolerant than most ferns, but water weekly during dry periods. Mulch heavily to retain soil moisture in Florida's sandy soils.
Soil & Fertilizer
Plant in humus-rich, slightly acidic, well-draining soil amended with compost. In NE Florida's sandy soils, incorporate generous organic matter. Fertilize lightly with a slow-release palm or general-purpose fertilizer in spring and summer.
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Common questions
Is Holly Fern a good plant for St. Augustine?
Holly Fern is a fern for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, with medium salt tolerance, reaching 1-2 feet × 2-3 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.