Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides) Deep green evergreen fronds are beautiful year-round. An excellent addition to a shady landscape.

Ferns – Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides) Spores

$ 4.75

Deep green evergreen fronds are beautiful year-round. An excellent addition to a shady landscape. Deer-resistant foliage.

Native to Maine: Yes

Growing conditions: Shade in medium soil

Grows up to: 18"

Natural habitat: Deciduous and evergreen woodlands

Germination Code(s): Fern Spores
Sow spores in a warm, bright location in a sealed container, and keep moist. Further instructions will be enclosed with your order.  This species is very challenging to grow, and a great species for more experienced seed-sowers.

Read more about growing ferns from spores here (scroll to the bottom of the page).

Each seed package carries a specific germination code along with the plant description. These codes indicate specific sowing instructions.

  • A Seeds can be sown outdoors in fall or early spring.
  • B Seeds need a winter or cold period to germinate. Sow outdoors in fall or winter.
  • C Seeds need light to germinate; sow on soil surface and leave uncovered.
  • D Seeds need alternating cycles of warm-to-cold-to-warm to germinate. They can be sown either outdoors in spring or summer and will germinate the following year or in a flat in a warm place for 3 months, then moved to a refrigerator for 2 months, then moved outside in the early summer warmth.
  • E Seeds can not be allowed to dry out. Sow immediately.
  • F Seeds take two years to germinate. Sow outside in the fall or winter and look for germination in the second spring. A shady location prevents the flats from rapid drying and reduces weeding
  • G Large seeds should be soaked overnight in water.
  • FERN: Sow spores in a warm bright location in a sealed container and keep moist. Directions enclosed with package. Challenging.

If you have specific questions about seeds and germination guidelines please contact us at info@wildseedproject.net.

All seeds can be sown and placed outdoors in fall or winter bypassing the need for an artificial indoor cold stratification (refrigerator) required for some species when planted in spring. This is the simplest method. See How to Grow Natives From Seed for detailed instructions.