Cyrtomium fortunei

Cyrtomium fortunei: Fortune’s Holly Fern

Sleek, glossy, and architectural, Cyrtomium fortunei brings a bold presence to the shade with its leathery, holly-like fronds. This evergreen to semi-evergreen fern stands out from softer-textured companions, offering crisp lines and a polished finish that lasts well into fall—and even winter in sheltered sites. With its upright, clumping habit and rich green tones, it’s a standout in modern woodland plantings or classic shady borders, thriving in cool, moist soil and adding structure year-round.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 45–75 cm
• Spread: 45–60 cm
• Flower Colour: None (foliage plant)
• Flowering Period: N/A
• Foliage: Glossy, leathery, dark green fronds with holly-like leaflets
• Sunlight Requirements: Part shade to full shade
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil

Uses and Benefits: Fortune’s Holly Fern is ideal for shaded foundations, north-facing beds, woodland gardens, or as a refined foliage feature in containers. Its evergreen nature gives it a strong winter presence, while its bold texture makes it a natural foil for finer foliage or soft-blooming perennials. This fern is also deer resistant, adaptable, and more tolerant of dry shade than many others once established.

Companion Plants: Pair the bold, glossy fronds of Cyrtomium fortunei with the stately silver-blue foliage of Hosta 'Krossa Regal', the soft cascading blades of Hakonechloa macra, and the elegant blush-pink blooms of Helleborus 'Flower Girl'. Together, these plants form a sophisticated shade planting with strong structure, delicate accents, and multi-season beauty.

Care Instructions: Keep soil evenly moist but well-drained, particularly during the establishment phase. Add compost or organic mulch in spring to boost fertility and retain moisture. Cut back any damaged fronds in early spring. In colder climates, provide winter mulch or plant in a sheltered location to protect evergreen foliage. Division is rarely needed but can be done in spring.

History: Native to East Asia, Cyrtomium fortunei has long been grown for its unique, holly-like foliage and evergreen reliability. Named after Scottish botanist Robert Fortune, who introduced numerous Asian plants to Western gardens in the 19th century, this fern remains a favourite for its bold form and adaptability.

Final Thoughts: With its evergreen shine and sharp-edged elegance, Fortune’s Holly Fern adds year-round texture and polish to shaded gardens. It’s a plant that holds its own in every season—quietly commanding, effortlessly refined.