Northern hollyfern

Polystichum lonchitis

Also known as Northern shield fern, Prickly shield fern, Holly fern, Aspidium aculeatum subsp. lonchitis

Native Plants · Fern · Evergreen · Shade Plant · Woodland · Holly Fern · Polystichum · Cool Climate · Rock Garden · Hardy · Native Fern

Northern hollyfern is a striking, evergreen fern with glossy, dark green fronds that thrives in shaded, moist, and cool garden settings such as woodland borders or shaded rock gardens. Plant in humus-rich, well-drained soil and keep consistently moist, especially during dry spells. It is cold-hardy and low-maintenance, needing only an annual tidy-up of old fronds in early spring.