Dryopteris varia
Japanese holly fern
A clump-forming, semi-evergreen fern with triangular shaped fronds, wide at the base and narrowing to the tip. New fronds in spring have a bronze tint to the foliage which turns green-grey as it matures
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Neutral, AcidColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Bronze | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Grey Silver | |||
| Autumn | Green Grey Silver | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full shade
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or West–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Dryopteridaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Dryopteris can be deciduous, semi-evergreen or evergreen ferns, with stout, erect or decumbent rhizomes and shuttlecock-like rosettes of lance-shaped to ovate, pinnately divided fronds
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- China to Malesia, Japan
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows well in most moist but free draining soil in shade or partial shade. See how to grow ferns for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by division or spores
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Flower borders and beds
- Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Pruning
No pruning required, but old or faded fronds can be removed as needed
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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