Christmas Fern (Polystichum acrostichoides) is a groundcover with dark green fronds up to 2 feet long. They prefer mesic to dry soil in part sun to shade. Colonies typically form as the plants mature, which makes them a good choice for groundcovers on shaded slopes and banks. The foliage is semi-evergreen, adding winter interest. Companion plants include Pennsylvania Sedge (Carex pensylvanica) and Woodland Phlox (Phlox divaricata).
Maintenance
In wetter soils, plant the rhizome at an angle to prevent crown rot from developing.
About
Light Requirements
Part Sun,
Shade Moisture Requirements
Banks,
Slopes Soil Requirements
Loam,
Organically Rich Soil Height
Very Short,
Short Spacing
1 to 2 feet Category
Groundcover Illinois Native Plant Status
Yes Seasonality
Fall,
Spring,
Summer,
Winter Sociability
Groups of 5-10