Are you referring to Cyrtomium species and cultivars?
I have grown Cyrtomium fortunei and C. falcatum(and cultivar 'Rochfordianum') for more than 15 years. They take a beating in the winter, but put on new growth in late spring(now). Both are introduced species and C. falcatum can be found as far north as Ohio & NY. Have just recently added C. caryotideum and can't vouch for it's long term hardiness.(It is listed as native in 2 states, LA & HI)
Ferns in the Genus Arachniodes and Polystichum are also referred to as Holly Ferns and I grow many of those.
Rb

Here in Memphis, it isn't hardy, sorry to say...!

I'm in zone 6a southern ontario temperate zone with brutal hot and humid summers and very cold harsh winters and my holly fern is one of my best ferns. Granted it's protected from the harsh winter winds b/c it's between my house and my neighbor's which are only 8 feet apart but other than that we don't have any special treatment for it.

Barb

I'm growing Cyrtomium falcatum and C.fortunatum in potting soil in clay pots in filtered shade outside yearround in zone 8a (just on the borderline of Zone 7). In a former garden had grown them in ground in afternoon full sun, heavy moist clay soil, for at least 10 years, same zone. Beautiful healthy easy plants. josh

Hi:
If you are referring to what is commonly called Japanese Holly Fern, I have two which are many years old. One is at least 9 years old the other is at least 6. They are evergreen during the Winter. In extreme cold Winter situations the fronds do get blackend, but in the Spring put up new shoots if you trim them back. Oh and I live in Memphis, so perhaps Sissy just had some bad luck with hers.
I have a friend that one a few years ago, becuase mine were so huge. Hers are doing just fine.

In Auburn, AL it grows very well and overwinters. My friend has had them for many years and I have 3 of my own that are doing well. Lowes has them for sale here and they have had them outside in pots for the last five weeks. Doing fine too. Hope this helps.