Quick answer: Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides) is native to 11 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically live plant (bare-root), verified 16 Sep 2026.
Where it's native
Listed in the register as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade, Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Medium |
| Soil | Moist, acid, humus-rich |
| Bloom | Non-flowering (spore-bearing) |
| Height | 1.5-2 ft (to 3 ft) |
| Wildlife value | Attracts Ruffed Grouse; evergreen year-round shelter |
Invasive / regulated
none noted; clumping, not a spreading carpet
Buying it
Wild species
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Live plant (bare-root) via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
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