Plant Profile: Japanese Painted Fern

Botanical Name: Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum'
Common Name: Japanese Painted Fern
Plant Type: Perennial
Light Requirements: Full or Part Shade
Special Attributes: Deer resistant
Zone: 5-8
Growth Rate: Moderate
Height X Spread: 15" H x 18" W
Bloom Time: Does not bloom
Bloom Description: Does not bloom
Foliage Description: Grayish-green silvery leaves with burgundy stems
Soil: Neutral to acidic, moist, well-drained, sandy
Water: Regular
Prune: None
Tidy: None
Fertilizer: Shredded leaves and rich compost
Fertilizing cycle: Spring
Special Maintenance: Cut back old fronds after spring growth begins
Propagation: Spring or Fall division or from spores
Pests & Diseases: Slugs and snails

Notes: This low maintenance perennial is happy in the shade, but requires a little bit of sunlight for the most vibrant frond color. Morning sun is best. Regular watering is fine provided the location is naturally moist. Otherwise, more frequent watering would be required. It’s an excellent choice as either an accent or border plant near ponds or streams and contrasts nicely with hostas.