Madeira holly fern (Arachniodes webbiana) is an evergreen fern native to Madeira and the Canary Islands, prized for its attractive, holly-like fronds.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade to Shade
25% intensity
Thrives in dappled shade or deep shade; direct sunlight can scorch fronds.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Prefers evenly moist soil; avoid drying out completely or becoming waterlogged.
Moist, well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures between 15-24°C; avoid cold drafts.
Moderate Feed
25% intensity
Feed sparingly during the growing season with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer.
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 winter months, allowing the soil to dry out a little more between waterings to prevent root rot.
Remove any dead, damaged, or yellowing fronds at the base of the plant. This helps maintain the plant's appearance and encourages healthy new growth. Pruning can be done at any time of year, but is best done in spring.
Propagate by division of the rhizomes during spring. Carefully separate established plants, ensuring each division has healthy roots and at least one frond. Replant the divisions in moist, well-draining soil.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound, preferably in spring. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one and use a well-draining potting mix.
Ensure good drainage holes in the new pot.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Madeira Holly Fern (Arachniodes webbiana)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Dryopteridaceae |
| Genus | Arachniodes |
| Species | Arachniodes webbiana |
Similar in genus Arachniodes
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
