ATHYRIUM FILIX-FEMINA / LADY FERN

ATHYRIUM FILIX-FEMINA / LADY FERN

A Graceful Native Fern with Lacy, Arching Fronds

Athyrium filix-femina, commonly known as Lady Fern, is a delicate native fern valued for its finely divided, lacy fronds that arch gracefully from the base. Thriving in partial to full shade with consistently moist, well-drained soils, Lady Fern adds texture, elegance, and evergreen interest to woodland gardens, shaded borders, and naturalized landscapes.

Why Choose Lady Fern?

Native & Woodland Friendly: Ideal for shaded gardens, woodland edges, and naturalized areas.
Elegant & Textured: Lacy, arching fronds add visual softness and movement.
Low Maintenance: Adaptable to moist, shaded soils and requires minimal care once established.
Evergreen Interest: Provides year-round structure in mild climates.

Key Features:

Foliage Color: Light to medium green, finely divided fronds.
Height and Spread: Typically grows 2–3 feet tall and 2–3 feet wide.
Hardiness: Hardy to USDA Zones 3–8.
Sunlight: Prefers partial to full shade.
Soil Requirements: Moist, humus-rich, well-drained soils; tolerates clay and loam.

Specifications:

Plant Size: 2–3 feet tall, 2–3 feet wide.
Growth Habit: Clump-forming perennial fern with arching fronds.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 3–8.
Flowering: Non-flowering; reproduces via spores.

Ideal Uses:

Woodland & Shade Gardens: Adds texture and elegance under trees and shrubs.
Borders & Naturalized Areas: Perfect for shaded perennial beds and woodland edges.
Low-Maintenance Landscapes: Reliable and attractive in naturalized or woodland-style gardens.
Complementary Plantings: Pairs well with hostas, trilliums, and other shade-loving perennials.

Lady Fern is a graceful and resilient native fern. Its lacy, arching fronds, shade tolerance, and low-maintenance nature make it a standout choice for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and naturalized landscapes.