Cyrtomium fortunei var. clivicola

The Toughest Exotic Fern – Shady, Hardy, and Lush

If you are looking for a plant that brings a tropical "jungle" look to the shadiest corners of your garden—and stays green all winter—this is it. The Cyrtomium fortunei var. clivicola is a standout variety of Holly Fern, prized for waxy, chartreuse-green leaflets that look more like a structural houseplant than a traditional wispy fern.

Why We Love the 'Clivicola' Variety

The clivicola variety is distinct for its beautiful, relaxed, arching habit. It stays more compact and spreading than the standard species, making it a perfect choice for ground cover or for filling out the lower levels of a planting scheme.

• Cornish Tough: This fern is fully hardy across the UK. It is remarkably resilient against wind and damp, keeping its bold, leathery foliage even when other ferns have gone dormant for the winter.

• Shade Specialist: This is a problem-solver for those tricky "dry shade" spots under tree canopies or in north-facing borders where most plants struggle.

• Architectural Foliage: The bold, jagged leaflets provide a fantastic texture that stays vibrant year-round.

Plant Details:

• Habit: Low-growing and arching (approx. 45cm–60cm height/spread).

• Foliage: Evergreen, leathery, and lime-to-forest green.

• Hardiness: Fully Hardy (H5) – ideal for year-round interest in the UK.

• Position: Full shade to partial shade.

Jungle Tip:

Because of its horizontal, arching growth, this fern looks its best when planted in small groups. The lime-green foliage naturally draws the eye into darker corners of the garden, providing a lush, permanent green backdrop regardless of the season.