Polystichum makinoi, commonly known as Makinoi’s Holly Fern, is an evergreen fern native to the forest floors and shaded slopes of Japan, Taiwan and China. It typically grows to a height and width of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters), featuring glossy, dark green fronds that give it a lush, textured appearance. The fronds are lance-shaped with holly-like pinnae, which is how it gets its common name. The plant does not produce flowers or seeds, but reproduces via spores that are found in sori on the underside of the fronds.

Makinoi’s Holly Fern is valued for its year-round foliage and its ability to thrive in shaded conditions, making it an excellent choice for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and as an understory plant in shaded areas. It is also suitable for container planting, provided the soil is kept consistently moist. This fern prefers part shade to full shade and requires soil that is rich in organic matter with medium drainage. While it is relatively low maintenance, it benefits from regular watering during dry periods and the removal of any damaged or old fronds to maintain its neat appearance.CC BY-SA 4.0