White Flower Farm
Polystichum acrostichoides
Best low-maintenance evergreen for deer-prone woodland gardens.
The Christmas Fern (*Polystichum acrostichoides*) is a hardy evergreen native that brings year-round beauty, especially in milder climates. This clumping perennial features 2-foot fronds, traditionally used for holiday decorations. It thrives in shady woodland environments and tolerates partial shade with consistent moisture. Once established, it requires minimal care and is highly resistant to deer. This fern is ideal for naturalized woodland gardens and ships ready for planting in USDA Zones 3-9.
$22.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
1695
/ 3083
#1695 in Landscaping & Garden Plants
Price vs Category Average
-20%
Below average
Mature Height
2
/ feet
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking winter interest in their landscape
- Busy homeowners wanting low-maintenance, pest-resistant greenery
- Landscapers filling difficult, deep-shade garden corners
Who should skip it
- Impatient gardeners looking for rapid landscape coverage
- Gardeners in arid climates without reliable irrigation
- Plant lovers prioritizing vibrant, seasonal floral displays
Performance breakdown
Deer Resistance
Reliably avoids browsing damage in areas with high deer populations.
Shade Adaptability
Thrives in deep woodland shade where most flowering plants struggle.
Maintenance Effort
Requires minimal intervention once the root system is fully established.
Climate Versatility
Broad hardiness range accommodates diverse regional temperature fluctuations.
Seasonal Interest
Evergreen foliage provides consistent texture throughout the dormant winter months.
Growth Predictability
Slow, clumping habit prevents the plant from overtaking neighboring garden beds.
Key Specs
Mature Height
2 feet
Hardiness Zones
USDA 3 to 9
Minimum Temperature Tolerance
-40 F
Plant Type
Perennial
Growth Rate
Slow
Planting Spacing
18 inches recommended
Soil pH Range
4.0 to 7.0
Warranty
1 year money-back guarantee
Features
- Provides year-round evergreen foliage interest
- Highly resistant to browsing deer
- Thrives in low-light woodland environments
- Low maintenance once established
- Features traditional holiday decoration fronds
- Slow growth rate ensures manageable size
- Clumping habit maintains neat garden appearance
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly praise the exceptional quality and health of the Christmas Ferns received from White Flower Farm. Reviewers consistently note the meticulous packaging ensures plants arrive robust and ready for planting, often appearing more mature than expected. This high initial standard leads to successful establishment and vigorous growth in the garden. The fern's inherent hardiness and reliable evergreen nature are highly valued for providing consistent winter interest in shaded locations. While the superior quality and reliability are acknowledged, the premium pricing strategy is a significant concern for many. Customers feel the cost is substantially higher than local nursery options, slightly tempering the overall value perception despite the undeniable product excellence. This purchase is highly recommended for those prioritizing guaranteed plant success over budget.
Know before you buy
Yes, this is an evergreen perennial. In milder climates, it will retain its foliage year-round, though the fronds may lay flat against the ground during the coldest months.
The Christmas Fern is best suited for full to partial shade. It thrives in woodland environments, so avoid planting it in areas with direct, intense afternoon sun.
Yes, the Christmas Fern is highly resistant to deer. Its tough, leathery fronds are generally unappealing to browsing animals, making it a reliable choice for gardens where deer pressure is a concern.
We recommend spacing your ferns 18 inches apart. This allows enough room for the clumping habit to mature without overcrowding the plants.
These ferns prefer well-drained soil with a pH between 4.0 and 7.0. While they need consistent moisture to get established, they do not like to sit in waterlogged ground.
The Christmas Fern has a slow growth rate. While this means it takes time to reach its mature height of 2 feet, it also ensures the plant remains manageable and won't quickly outgrow its designated space.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$22