Perennial – East Indian Holly Fern

East Indian holly fern

Botanical name: arachniodes simplicior 

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: up to 18 inches in height and in spread 

Hardy zone: zones 6-9

Foliage color: green, gray, yellow 

Growth rate: reaches fully mature size in 1-2 growing seasons 

Pruning instructions: prune to maintain desired shape and size during the spring, summer, and fall months 

Propagation methods: propagate with cuttings in the spring and summer months 

Landscape use: borders, container plant, shade garden, groundcover 

Special features: deer resistant, shade tolerant, drought tolerant 

Light needs: 4 hours of sun per day 

Watering instructions: allow soil to mostly dry out between watering sessions 

Fertilizing instructions : use a slow-release liquid fertilizer once a year in the early spring 

Best time to plant: spring, summer, fall 

Best type of soil: clay, loam 

Companion plants: other ferns, hostas, astilbe, coleus 

Toxicity level: non-toxic for humans and pets 

Invasive species: yes