Fortune's holly fern
cyrtomium fortunei
Also known as: ["Chinese holly fern","holly fern"]
Overview
A hardy, evergreen fern with glossy, holly-like leaflets and a compact growth habit, native to eastern Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Polypodiopsida |
| Order: | Polypodiales |
| Family: | Dryopteridaceae |
| Genus: | Cyrtomium |
| Botanical Name: | Cyrtomium fortunei |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shady garden bed or indoor pot in a humid, well-ventilated area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry environments, otherwise rarely required
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, rich, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only damaged or yellowing fronds.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in warmer months.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to dappled light
Avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth; provide dappled light outdoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and humidity.
Soil
well-draining, loamy, slightly acidic potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage, enrich with organic matter, avoid compacted soil, maintain pH balance.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C).
Protect from frost, avoid sudden temperature changes, maintain moderate warmth year-round.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall)
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or spore propagation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes with sharp, clean tools.
- Plant spores on surface of moist medium.
- Keep consistently moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and shaded conditions for spores; normal growing conditions for divisions.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for division; sterilized potting mix for spores.
Hormone
Not necessary for division; optional for spore propagation.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; spores: 6–12 months for germination and growth.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, sterilized scissors, pots, peat-based mix, humidity dome (optional).
Quick Tips
Ensure clean cuts for division; maintain high humidity for spores; be patient with spore germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual fronds at the base with clean, sharp tools.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and health; encourage new growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, scissors, or sharp knife.
Checklist
Use clean tools, remove only dead/damaged fronds, avoid over-pruning, sanitize tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare fresh soil, handle roots carefully, water lightly, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season, avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing or browning of fronds, stunted growth, or leaf drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause frond damage or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, and reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Wilting, scorching of fronds, or reduced vigor in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer, dilute properly, fertilize monthly in growing season, cease in winter, rinse soil occasionally.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCyrtomium fortunei is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCyrtomium fortunei is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCyrtomium fortunei is not considered toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much light does Fortune's holly fern need?
A: It thrives in partial to full shade, making it ideal for shaded garden areas.
Q: Is Fortune's holly fern toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this fern require frequent watering?
A: It is drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during dry periods.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Dryopteridaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to dappled light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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