Also known as Asiatic Holly Fern · Dwarf Holly Fern · Dwarf Netvein Hollyfern
kā‘ape‘ape (Cyrtomium caryotideum) is an attractive evergreen fern with holly-like, leathery fronds, ideal for shady, moist garden spots.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Filtered Light
50% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch its fronds.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Average Room Temperature
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost and sudden temperature fluctuations.
Regular Feeding (Growing Season)
50% intensity
Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with diluted balanced liquid fertilizer during spring and summer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch.
Reduce watering slightly during cooler winter months, but never allow the soil to dry out completely. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
Remove any yellowed, brown, or damaged fronds as they appear. This improves the plant's appearance and encourages new growth. Use clean, sharp scissors or a knife to make cuts close to the base of the frond.
Light pruning can be done year-round.
Cyrtomium caryotideum is typically propagated by division of established clumps in the spring. Carefully separate the rhizomes with a few fronds and roots attached.
Alternatively, spores can be collected from mature fronds and sown on moist medium, though this is a slower method.
Repot your plant every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one, ensuring it has drainage holes.
Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a peat-based mix with added perlite or sand.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Kā‘ape‘ape (Cyrtomium caryotideum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Dryopteridaceae |
| Genus | Cyrtomium |
| Species | Cyrtomium caryotideum |
Similar in genus Cyrtomium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
