Athyrium niponicum var. pictum (Japanese Painted Fern)

Common name: Japanese Painted Fern

Description: Athyrium niponicum var. pictum is one of the most ornamental ferns available, with elegantly arching fronds displaying a stunning combination of silvery-grey, green, and burgundy-red. Each frond is intricately painted with metallic silver tones along the midrib, creating a jewel-like effect in shaded spots. Deciduous but well worth waiting for, the new fronds unfurl reliably each spring, growing more impressive with each passing year. It is superb in woodland gardens, shaded borders, and as a container specimen.

Other benefits: outstanding ornamental foliage, excellent in containers, thrives in deep shade

Wildlife attraction: provides habitat and shelter for small invertebrates

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 40cm x 60cm

Position: partial shade to full shade; protect from direct sun

Soil pH: neutral to acid; humus-rich

Moisture: moist but well-drained; mulch annually to retain moisture

Winter hardiness: cold hardy to -20°C