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Japanese Painted Fern

Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum

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Overview

The Japanese Painted Fern, Athyrium niponicum var. pictum, is prized for its striking, silver-green fronds with bluish hues and maroon midribs. This shade-loving perennial thrives in moist, well-drained soil and reaches about 12 to 18 inches tall and wide. Hardy in zones 4-9, it's a low-maintenance choice that adds a delicate texture and color contrast to woodland gardens.

Sun Half, ShadeWater Extra in Summer, MediumZones 3–8Type Fern
Japanese Painted Fern (Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum) — Regular watering will support its lush appearance, especially in dryer conditions

Culture

Sun
Half, Shade
Water
Extra in Summer, Medium
USDA zones
3–8

Shape & size

Classification

Type
Fern
Family
Polypodiaceae

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Photos (47)

Japanese Painted Fern (Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum) — This shade-loving perennial thrives in moist; relatively low maintenance
Japanese Painted Fern (Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum) — well-drained soil and reaches about 12 to 18 inches tall and wide
Japanese Painted Fern (Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum) — or alongside hostas and heucheras for a sophisticated palette of texture and color
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum
Photographs by 2 contributors

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