Cyrtomium fortunei 'clivicola'
Cyrtomium fortunei 'clivicola'
£5.99
£16.00
£16.00
£16.00
£16.00
£16.00
£16.00
£5.39
£3.99
£7.99
New to this plant? See how to care for it
Cyrtomium fortunei 'clivicola'
8.5cm
£4.99
Cyrtomium fortunei 'Clivicola', the Japanese holly fern, is one of the most architecturally striking hardy ferns you can grow. Each arching frond is lined with glossy, leathery pinnae that genuinely resemble holly leaves, giving the plant a bold, almost tropical presence while remaining tough enough to shrug off a British winter. It is exactly the kind of hardy exotic that brings year-round structure and a touch of the unexpected to shady corners.
Unlike many ferns that vanish in autumn, the holly fern is evergreen, holding its deep green fronds right through the coldest months. 'Clivicola' is a particularly neat, clump-forming form, slowly building into a tidy rosette around 45-60cm tall and wide. Its dense, glossy foliage catches the light beautifully and contrasts wonderfully with softer ferns, hostas, hardy gingers and other shade-loving foliage plants.
How and where to grow
This is a true woodland plant, happiest in partial to full shade with shelter from drying winds and harsh midday sun. Give it a moist but well-drained soil enriched with leaf mould or garden compost; it is wonderfully unfussy about pH and will grow happily in chalk, clay, loam or sand. A north or east-facing border, a shaded courtyard, or the base of a wall are all ideal homes.
- Position: Partial to full shade, sheltered
- Soil: Moist but well-drained, humus-rich
- Hardiness: Reliably hardy across most of the UK
- Eventual size: Around 45-60cm in 2-5 years
Cyrtomium fortunei is refreshingly low-maintenance. Keep it watered through its first season and during dry spells, mulch the crown each autumn, and simply snip away any worn fronds in early spring as the fresh fiddleheads unfurl. Its compact habit also makes it a superb container fern for a shady patio or doorway.
Whether you are searching for a dependable holly fern for a difficult shady spot or a handsome evergreen centrepiece, this Japanese holly fern delivers on both looks and resilience. Every plant we send out is nursery-grown, well-established and carefully selected, ready to settle straight into your garden.
Water
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water your plant when the top layer of soil feels slightly dry, and always ensure the pot has good drainage. Avoid soggy soil or standing water, and do not let the plant dry out completely, as steady moisture is essential for healthy growth.
Light
This plant grows best in bright, indirect light or dappled shade. Keep it away from direct sun, which can scorch its delicate leaves. For healthy growth and vibrant foliage, place it near a north-facing or east-facing window where it will receive plenty of filtered light.
What does bright indirect light mean?
Humidity
This plant thrives in high humidity and benefits from a consistently humid environment. Good humidity levels help support healthy growth and keep the foliage healthy. To increase humidity, use a humidifier or place the plant in a naturally humid room like a bathroom or kitchen. Plant cabinets, grow tents, and terrariums can also help create stable humidity for tropical houseplants, especially in drier homes. When using enclosed growing spaces, ensure there is adequate airflow to prevent excess moisture build-up. Adding sphagnum moss around the stem can also help hold moisture and improve growing conditions.
Should I mist my houseplants?
Temperature
This plant grows best in warm temperatures between 18°C and 26°C. Keep it away from cold draughts and avoid temperatures below 15°C, as cooler conditions can stress the plant and affect healthy growth.
