Fortune's Holly Fern 'Clivicola'

This cultivar of Fortune's Holly Fern is a robust and distinctive evergreen fern that offers a different aesthetic to the typical feathery fern look. 'Clivicola' is generally shorter and more compact than the species, with slightly more matte, yellowish-green pinnae. The fronds are composed of bold, holly-like leaflets that provide a coarse texture, making it a perfect foil for more delicate ferns or woodland perennials. It is remarkably hardy for a holly fern and performs excellently in the UK, even in colder regions if given a bit of shelter. It reaches a height of about 40-50cm and is particularly useful for adding structure to dark corners where other plants might struggle. It is more tolerant of dry air and low light than many other ferns, making it a versatile choice for urban shade gardens or basement lightwells. It prefers well-drained, fertile soil.

Sun: Full shade.

Soil: Moist but well-drained, fertile soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.