Japanese Painted Fern

Moderate to slow-growing deciduous to semi-evergreen fern to 16” tall x 24-28” wide. One of the most colorful in the fern domain, this attractive, cold-hardy variety spreads by underground rhizomes to form a rounded mound of silvery-gray fronds with reddish-purple vein and stem accents. This coloration intensifies with age, truly one of the most beautiful ferns in the landscape. Older fronds can be removed in fall or winter, though allowing them to persist will provide a canopy of protection for the soft new fronds that emerge in spring. This plant is easily divided which should be done in spring after any threat of frost has passed. Great for providing a colorful accent or color contrast in shadier parts of the garden, as well as making a fine container specimen. Despite its delicate appearance, this variety is actually quite durable if given proper care. Prefers a rich, acidic, evenly-moist, well-drained soil and thrives in a partial to full shade exposure.