Japanese Painted Fern
Athyrium niponicum
Add elegant, shimmering foliage to your shade garden with the Japanese Painted Fern, a captivating and low-maintenance perennial.
Size
Installation
About this plant
The Japanese Painted Fern (Athyrium niponicum) is a standout selection for shaded landscapes, celebrated for its unique metallic foliage. Its fronds emerge with striking silver-green hues, often accented by deep burgundy or purple midribs, creating a truly artistic display. This deciduous perennial offers a beautiful, textural contrast when planted alongside broad-leaved shade plants like hostas or brunnera, and its delicate appearance belies a robust nature. Ideal for woodland gardens, shady borders, or container plantings, the Japanese Painted Fern brings an ethereal glow to any dark corner, providing season-long beauty with minimal fuss.
Care & maintenance
Requires consistently moist soil; avoid drying out. Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer. Protect from strong winds which can damage delicate fronds. Divide clumps every few years to maintain vigor.
Quick facts
- Type
- perennial
- Mature height
- 1-2 feet
- Mature width
- 1-2 feet
- Sun
- Full to part shade
- Water
- Medium to wet
- Growth rate
- Medium