Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Cyrtomium falcatum 'Rochfordianum'
Rochford's Holly Fern
- Family
- Dryopteridaceae
- Height
- 18 to 24 inches
- Width
- 24 to 36 inches
- Flower color
- Non-flowering fern
- Foliage color
- Glossy, dark green, holly-like fronds with coarsely fringed margins
- Bloom time
- Not applicable
- Light
- Partial shade to full shade
- Water
- Average; tolerates drier conditions better than many ferns
- Maintenance
- Low; remove old fronds as needed
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 6–10
- Wildlife
- Not applicable
About this plant
Cyrtomium falcatum 'Rochfordianum' is an evergreen fern with glossy, dark green fronds that resemble holly leaves. The broad, leathery leaflets have gently serrated edges, giving the plant a bold, textural quality. Unlike flowering plants, this fern reproduces via spores on the underside of its fronds rather than producing blooms. Its elegant, arching foliage provides year-round interest, making it a valuable addition to shaded gardens.
This variety is widely regarded as the easiest Cyrtomium to grow, prized for its adaptability and low-maintenance nature. Unlike many ferns, 'Rochfordianum' is more drought-tolerant and requires less water than traditional varieties, making it a practical choice for gardeners seeking a resilient shade plant. It thrives in a range of conditions, from deep shade to partial sun, and is well-suited for woodland gardens, borders, or container plantings where evergreen texture is desired.
Works well in
Borders · Shade Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Containers
Companion plants
Hellebores · Japanese forest grass · Astilbes · Heucheras · Siberian bugloss · Sweet woodruff
Design tip
Use it as a steady framework plant, repeating it along a bed to tie separate plantings together. Cooler light suits it, so tuck it on the north side of a shrub or wall where the soil stays even.
