Holly fern earns its name from glossy, leathery fronds with toothed leaflets that look more like holly leaves than typical fern lace. It forms a substantial clump two to three feet across and often stays green through mild Birmingham winters.

It's a forgiving fern for Southern shade: part shade to full shade, average water, and it settles right in. Deer and rabbits skip it. Use it massed under trees, along a north foundation, or mixed with hostas for contrast in texture.