Japanese Holly Fern, House Holly Fern, Rock Holly Fern
Cyrtomium falcatum · Dryopteridaceae (Wood Fern family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Compound (pinnately divided frond)
Shape
Lanceolate pinnae with a sickle-shaped (falcate) tip
Margin
Serrate to spiny-toothed, reminiscent of holly leaves
Arrangement
Alternate to sub-opposite pinnae arranged along the rachis of the compound frond
Venation
Reticulate (net-like) venation with a prominent midrib on each pinna
Key Features
Stiff, leathery, holly-like pinnae with prominent sickle-shaped tips and rounded sori on the underside.
Description
Cyrtomium falcatum is a hardy, evergreen fern featuring stiff, leathery fronds with glossy, dark green leaflets that strongly resemble holly foliage. It forms dense, arching clumps and remains vibrant throughout the year, making it a favorite for woodland gardens and shaded borders.
Habitat
Shaded rocky cliffs, coastal areas, forests, and ravines; prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial to full shade.
Native Range
Native to eastern Asia (Japan, China, Korea, and India), and widely naturalized in coastal and warm temperate regions globally.