Dwarf Japanese Holly Fern An attractive little fern for shady parts of the garden, Cyrtomium fortunei var. clivicola is a small, perennial, clump-forming, evergreen fern, with arching, divided, bright olive-green fronds. These have broad, papery, rather holly-like leaflets with a yellowish tinge, brighter in deeper shade. A good fern for underplanting trees and shrubs, on shady slopes and in dark, forgotten areas, it will gently spread where it is suited. Dwarf Japanese holly fern is a low maintenance plant, but not for the coldest areas; protect the crown in mild areas with a mulch in winter. Site: ShelteredSoil: Any moist but well-drained soilPosition: Partial shade to full shadeSeason of interest: All yearHardiness: Slightly tenderHeight: 20” (50cm) Spread: 20” (50cm)