This evergreen fern has a short erect rhizome that is covered in old frond bases and forms a tufted habit. it has  erect glossy dark green leathery divided fronds with pointed oblong leaflets and the fertile fronds produce the spores on the underside in summer.

Hardiness zones 6 to 9

Cyrtomium caryotideum is naturally found from Japan to China, Malaysia, India, to South Africa and extends from the Philippines to Hawaii growing in a rocky outcrops and in muddy crevices on the coast and rarely inland.  

It prefers a semi-shaded to shaded protected position and it grows in well to moderately drained organic rich sandy loam with a limestone base and with pH range from 5.6 to 7.8. it is a drought tender and moderately frost tolerant and is deer and rabbit resistant.

The Dwarf Holly Fern is grown for its attractive foliage and its erect habit. It is planted along a shaded borders or rockeries in small gardens and ferneries or used in moist coastal gully plantings. It is also grown in pots or tubs and is used as an indoor or conservatory specimen in cold regions. 

It is suitable for coastal and inland regions and establishes in 3-4 years and has long lived. This fern is also mass planted in the understory of woodland settings or use around water features. ID 2677

Cyrtomium (sir-TOH-mee-um) caryotideum (kair-ee-oh-TID-ee-um)

Cyrtomium (Caryota-like from the genius Caryota, palms with pinnate fronds)

Note:
This fern is herbaceous under cold conditions.

Dryopteridaceae (DRY-op-TER-ee-DAY-see-ee)