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Great Plant Pick: Polystichum x dycei aka Dyce’s holly fern

Published 1:30 am Friday, May 28, 2021

By Richie Steffen

This large holly fern adds a bold and elegant look to shaded gardens. (Richie Steffen)
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This large holly fern adds a bold and elegant look to shaded gardens. (Richie Steffen)
This large holly fern adds a bold and elegant look to shaded gardens. (Richie Steffen)

What: Dyce’s holly fern forms a vase-shaped bouquet of dark green, shiny fronds. Perfect for a bold, yet delicate statement in the small garden, or plant en masse in a woodland garden for a striking effect. No full sun for this shade lover; from open to dappled shade is best.

Where: Plant this large holly fern in open to dappled shade. The soil should be well draining, but rich in humus.

Size: Polystichum x dycei will grow to be 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide in 10 years.

Care: Water the hybrid fern regularly or frequently during dry periods. Cut the fronds to the ground in late February or early March.

— Richie Steffen, Great Plant Picks

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