Polystichum braunii, commonly known as Braun’s Holly Fern, is a semi-evergreen fern native to cool, shaded, and moist forested regions, including deciduous, mixed, and coniferous woodlands across Eurasia and North America. It typically grows to a height of 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) and a similar width, with a dense, clumping form. Braun’s Holly Fern has dark green, glossy fronds that are triangular and bipinnate, giving them a textured and holly-like appearance. The fronds emerge in spring and remain attractive throughout the growing season and into winter in milder climates.

This fern is valued for its hardiness and the lush texture it adds to shaded garden areas. It is often used in woodland gardens, shade gardens, and as an understory plant in larger landscapes. Braun’s Holly Fern prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil with high organic content and thrives in part to full shade. It is relatively low maintenance, requiring little care once established, and is not prone to serious pest or disease problems. However, it can suffer from root rot if planted in poorly drained soils. It is not known for being invasive and does not pose a threat when grown outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0