Athyrium niponicum var. pictum
Overview
Uses: Shade gardens, woodland borders, containers, and groundcover in moist, filtered areas.
Benefits: One of the most striking ferns available, the Japanese Painted Fern features soft, silvery fronds with hints of green and deep burgundy midribs. Its graceful, arching form adds texture and contrast to shady spaces and pairs beautifully with hostas and heucheras.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–9
Life Cycle: Hardy Perennial
Sun: Partial Shade to Full Shade
Mature Height: 12" – 18"
Mature Width: 18" – 24"
Bloom Season: Non-flowering (foliage interest)
Growth Rate: Moderate
Summary
Athyrium niponicum var. pictum, known as the Japanese Painted Fern, is prized for its unique, variegated fronds that shimmer in shades of silver, blue-green, and plum. This cold-hardy fern brings elegant color and soft movement to shaded garden beds, woodland plantings, and containers.
Its low, mounding habit and clumping growth make it a perfect understory accent or border plant. Easy to grow, deer-resistant, and long-lived, this fern thrives in moist, humus-rich soil with consistent shade.
Care
Japanese Painted Fern Care
Plant in moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Keep soil evenly moist—Japanese Painted Ferns prefer consistent moisture but not standing water. They grow best in dappled shade or morning sun with afternoon shade.
Mulch annually to retain moisture and protect roots during winter. Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring to encourage fresh growth and maintain vigor.
Feed lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer or slow release fertilizer to support lush frond development.
Size
Size of Japanese Painted Fern for Sale Online
Our Athyrium niponicum var. pictum plants are greenhouse-grown and shipped healthy, well-rooted, and ready to plant in their nursery pots. For size details, please contact us.
Size of Japanese Painted Fern When Fully Grown
When mature, this fern typically reaches 12–18 inches tall and spreads 18–24 inches wide, forming soft, arching clumps of color-rich foliage.
Additional Information
Other Common Names
Japanese Painted Fern is also known as Painted Lady Fern and Silver Fern, referring to its distinctive, metallic-hued fronds.
Is Japanese Painted Fern evergreen?
No, it is deciduous. The fronds die back in winter and reemerge fresh each spring.
Can Japanese Painted Fern grow indoors?
While primarily an outdoor fern, it can adapt to indoor conditions in bright, indirect light and high humidity.
Is Japanese Painted Fern deer resistant?
Yes — it’s naturally deer and rabbit resistant, making it an excellent low-maintenance choice for shaded landscapes.
Does Japanese Painted Fern spread?
It grows slowly outward in clumps, forming graceful mounds over time without becoming invasive.
