Ferns

Ferns are classic favorites for shade and woodland areas.  Most are deer resistant and some will grow in sun if they receive ample moisture. We have a wide variety of ferns, both native and otherwise, many of which are evergreen or semi-evergreen. Most ferns prefer moist soil, but there are several that are drought tolerant once established.  Ferns are best planted in fall or in spring after they have broken dormancy.  Old fronds may be removed in early spring before the new growth appears.

Select Plant Type:
Botanical Name     Common Name
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Y-Z ALL
Polystichum acrostichoides
Common Name: Christmas Fern
Deep green leathery lance-shaped leaflets prefer moist, semi-shade although they can tolerate some dryness. Can also tolerate deep shade. Native. Evergreen.

Polystichum munitum
Common Name: Western Sword Fern
Dark green sword shaped fronds take on a vase-shaped appearance. Fast grower in spring. Prefers moist, well-drained soil. Evergreen.

Polystichum neolobatum 'Shiny Holly (Spiny Holly)'
Common Name: Shiny Holly
Wonderful deep green foliage is so shiny that it appears plastic. The emerging fronds are copper-colored as they unfurl. Prefers moist well-drained soil. Evergreen.

Polystichum polyblepharum
Common Name: Tassel Fern
Striking fern that forms rounded rosettes of coarse textured glossy, dark green fronds. Prefers acid soils. Evergreen. Deer resistant.

Polystichum setiferum 'Herrenhausen'
Common Name: Soft Needle Fern
Fronds of shiny green leaflets with a rusty brown center stem unfurl from unique fiddleheads in early spring. Evergreen. Deer resistant.

Polystichum tsus-simense
Common Name: Korean Rock Fern
Compact, stiff, leathery dark green fronds with darker stems. Grows in a neat rosette. Prefers shade and good drainage. Semi-evergreen. Deer resistant.