Athyrium Lady Fern is a North American native that grows 12 to 36 inches tall, bringing its graceful, feathery fronds to your garden for three seasons. With its light green foliage forming an upright, circular clump, this versatile fern is ideal for small-space gardens and adds an airy texture to shady borders or woodland plantings.
Athyrium filix-femina, known as lady fern, is a hardy perennial (Zones 3-9) that thrives in temperate regions. Lady fern grows naturally in moist woods, meadows, and ravines. However, wild lady fern populations are now endangered, but you can contribute to their preservation by adding them to your garden. And these nursery-grown plants are exclusively propagated commercially and never taken from their natural habitats.
Lady fern is perfect for planting along streams, ponds, or shady garden areas. It also works well in rock gardens or on slopes, where its roots help control erosion. Combine it with trilliums and Virginia bluebells for a breathtaking woodland garden display.
Lady fern is easy to grow and adapts well to various conditions. While it prefers humus-rich, well-draining soil, it tolerates average, moist soils and requires minimal care. Ensure good drainage to prevent crown rot, and keep your plant thriving with regular watering, mulch, and the removal of spent fronds.
For best results, plant Athyrium Lady Fern roots in spring, spacing them 18 inches apart and burying them 1/2 inch deep.
