indiana native plant of the month - december
As winter settles in and the landscape fades into shades of gray and brown, one plant keeps its vibrant green color all season long.
Christmas fern (polystichum acrostichoides)
Christmas Fern is a resilient native that thrives in the shady woodlands and forest edges of Indiana. It’s call “Christmas Fern” because its fronds stay green well into — and often through — the holiday season, offering a fresh splash of color when most plants have gone dormant.
This fern prefers rich, moist, well-drained soil but is adaptable and easy to grow once established. It’s a great choice for shaded slopes, woodland gardens, or under tree canopies where grass might struggle. The plant forms neat, clumping mounds that stay tidy year-round — no spreading, no fuss.
Not only is it low-maintenance, but it’s also deer resistant and helps prevent erosion with its dense root system. Plus, evergreen fronds provide cover for small wildlife through the colder months.
Description
Christmas Fern has a few key identifying traits such as:
Dark green, leathery fronds that stay evergreen through winter
Arched fronds 1’-2’ long, creating a fountain-like shape
Leaflets (pinnae) shaped like little stockings — perfect for the holiday season
Grows in clumps that slowly expand but do not spread aggressively
Fun Fact
The “Christmas” in its name comes not only from its winter color but also because early settlers often used the fronds for holiday decorations. If you look closely at the leaves, you’ll notice each leaflet looks like a tiny stocking — a festive coincidence that makes this fern even more fitting for the season!
