Perennials . . . What You Need to Know! by Althea R. Griffin

Author:Althea R. Griffin
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Plant It Publishing
Published: 2011-03-15T00:00:00+00:00

TIP

When planting containers, place a coffee filter over the drainage hole in the bottom to keep soil from washing out.

Holly Fern – Variegated

Part to full shade

No blooms

Green with yellow veins

18-24”t x 18”w

Evergreen to Zone 6-7

Variegated Holly Fern has been in my yard for years and always draws the attention of visitors. It is the most strikingly colored of all ferns with a yellow band down the center of dark green fronds. In the southern states, it tolerates heat and humidity plus provides winter interest in shady areas. A slow grower, but more than worth the wait!

Foliage: The leathery-textured fronds are a dark glossy green with a center yellow band. The triangular-shaped fronds, 8” at the widest part, grow 18-24” tall on sturdy, erect stems.

Light: Shade to partial shade, morning sun is fine.

Water: For ultimate growth, regular watering is best. Nonetheless, it can withstand dry conditions.

Use: Wonderful as the accent plant, in groupings of three or more set among other ferns, especially Autumn Fern, as they share the same growing needs. Because of its open nature, it is fun to underplant with Heucheras, Hostas or Toad Lilies along with shade annuals such as Impatiens and Fancy Begonias. Pretty hugging the base of a birdbath as well as planted in a container with other shade lovers.

Planting Tips: Try to purchase the largest size available to get it off to a good start. Loosened and moist acidic soil would be the ultimate spot for this fern, but it will tolerate less than perfect conditions. If it dies back, use a plant marker to designate the fern’s position, as it is late to emerge in the spring. Cover the area with a layer of mulch.

Fertilizer: Composted materials added to the hole at planting time will be the best fertilizer. Top dressing with compost each spring renews the necessary nutrients.

Plant Support: A single-ring stake works well for the tallest stems.

Pruning: Remove all browned and dried up fronds to the ground in early spring as well as during the growing season. Be careful not to cut the emerging stems!

Dividing/Sharing: Necessary to wait a couple years to divide until new plants emerge alongside the original fern.

Pests/Problems: None.

Cut Foliage: Very striking in any type of arrangement.

Zones: Evergreen in winter to Zone 6, about 10-15 degrees.

Gardener’s Notes:

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