How much sun does Northern Hollyfern need?

Northern Hollyfern grows best in part shade conditions.

Where is Northern Hollyfern native?

Northern Hollyfern (Polystichum lonchitis) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 11 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).

Is Northern Hollyfern HOA-friendly?

Northern Hollyfern is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Northern Hollyfern

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Polystichum lonchitis

Last reviewed: August 2026

Toxicity unknown

Northern Hollyfern (Polystichum lonchitis) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

12"–24" H × 12"–18" W

Bloom

N/A

Native to

AZ, CA, CO, ID and 11 more states

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 445 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

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Browse plants for this ecoregion

Coast Range Puget Lowland Northwestern Forested Mountains Sierra Nevada Central Basin and Range Southern Rockies Northwestern Great Plains Northern Lakes and Forests North American Deserts

Northern hollyfern is a compact evergreen fern with glossy, dark green fronds that form neat clumps. It thrives in shaded areas and maintains its attractive appearance year-round, making it an excellent choice for woodland gardens or as groundcover under trees.

In an HOA neighborhood

Northern Hollyfern is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.

Wildlife value

This fern provides shelter and nesting material for small birds and beneficial insects. Its evergreen fronds offer year-round habitat structure in shaded garden areas.

Common questions

How much sun does Northern Hollyfern need?: Northern Hollyfern grows best in part shade conditions.
Where is Northern Hollyfern native?: Northern Hollyfern (Polystichum lonchitis) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 11 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
Is Northern Hollyfern HOA-friendly?: Northern Hollyfern is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Northern Hollyfern? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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