Christmas Fern, one of the most recognizable ferns in eastern North America, gets its name from its evergreen fronds. Its firm, deep green foliage pairs beautifully with woodland wildflowers. This fern naturally thrives on shady, wooded slopes and grows well in well-drained soils. However, it is important to avoid consistently wet or heavy clay soils, as poor drainage can lead to crown rot.
Known for its deer resistance, the rhizomatous Christmas Fern grows into a large clump about 1–2 feet wide but does not spread aggressively or form a dense ground cover. It is also tolerant of juglone, making it suitable for planting under walnut trees. Mature plants can be divided in early spring, and applying a layer of fallen leaves as mulch is beneficial.
Christmas Fern can be used as a ground cover or an accent plant and is particularly effective when planted in masses on slopes to reduce soil erosion. It reproduces through circular, umbrella-like structures on the underside of its fronds and is easy to grow and maintain when provided with the right conditions.