2004
Perennial
Plant
of the Year

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Height: 12-18"

Spread: 24"

Part Shade to Shade

Hardiness Zone: 3-8

Cost: $7.00

One of the most colorful ferns for the garden, the Japanese Painted Fern has silvery-grey fronds which are dusty purple towards the center. They are set off by the purplish-red veins and stems.

This fern has a low and mounding habit, slowly spreading by rhizomes to form dense colonies. The fronds are positioned in a way that creates a horizontal layering effect much like you see in Dogwood trees.

Homeowner Growing & Maintenance Tips:
Athyrium grows best in moist soil with a neutral to moderately acidic pH. Partial to full shade is best; some sunlight is necessary to draw out the coloring. To protect the crowns and tender shoots in the spring, it is best to leave the old fronds on the plant over the winter. They can be removed in the spring when the new fronds reach 6 inches tall. If division is necessary, do so in the spring.

Information and photos courtesy of Walters Gardens