Hardy, North American perennialDescription: Dark, leathery, evergreen fronds up to 5 inches across form a handsome groundcover with arching foliage Habit: Fronds reach 1-2 feet high; clumps grow up to 2 feet wide Culture: Prefers moist, rich, acidic soil and part shade; drought tolerant Hardiness: Cold hardy to USDA Zones 3 through 9This evergreen, Eastern North American species gets its name because it is still showy at Christmas-time and throughout the winter. In early spring new growth begins with light green fronds, resembling fiddle heads, unfurling at the center of the clump. Christmas fern was introduced into Europe in 1820. Although it is common in the woods at Monticello, it was not mentioned specifically in Jefferson's writing. During the 18th century, fern fronds were often used to pack around plants for shipping. This easy to grow perennial is more drought-resistant than other fern species.This plant will ship bare root. Arrives as a Medium Clump.Bare root planting tips: If you can't plant immediately, store your plant in a cool location and keep the roots moist or pot in a container with a nursery potting mix from your local garden center. Before planting, let the roots soak for several hours as you prepare the site. You'll want to dig a large enough hole so the root mass can spread out and the plant is at the same soil level as when it was growing in the nursery. Once planted, water it in well and wait a month before fertilizing. Mulching will help to maintain moisture and raise soil temperatures for faster growth.
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