Japanese painted fern
Athyrium niponicum var. pictum 'Pewter Lace'
Overview
Japanese painted ferns (Athyrium niponicum var. pictum 'Pewter Lace') are an amazing species of fern, boasting silver fronds and painting-like streaks of red, pink, and brown across their leaves. They are a low-maintenance species, doing best in partial shade or dappled light, and are perfect for adding a pop of color and texture to any garden. They look BEST when given a compost-based rich soil and kept moist through regular watering. These ferns can reach up to one foot tall and wide, bringing elegance and style to any home or landscape!
Care Guide
Watering
This species of fern requires frequent, but light, watering. Water the fern when the top 1/2 inch of soil is completely dry. This species does not tolerate having its feet in water, so be careful not to over-water. When watering, apply mild amounts, ensuring the roots and leaves are well hydrated. Since this species of fern does not require frequent heavy watering, it is best watered twice a week, rather than daily. When temperatures start to drop in the evenings, it's advisable to only water once per week.
Light
Japanese painted ferns do best in bright, indirect sunlight. In general, they should receive around 4 hours of sunlight each day, either in the morning or late afternoon. Avoid placing these ferns in direct sun as this can cause the leaves to scorch or burn.
Soil
Humus rich, Well-drained
Temperature
Hardiness zone 3–8.
Pruning
Japanese Painted Ferns should be pruned after the first frost. Prune off any dead or wilting foliage to maintain the fern’s attractive shape and to keep the foliage looking healthy. Pinch off any new growth at the tips of the fronds to maintain the desired size of the plant. Depending on the size of the fern, prune away no more than a third of any existing fronds.
Propagation
Division
Diseases & Pests
Common pests: Rust, Pest resistant, Disease resistant, Deer resistant .
Related plants
Other plants you might like if you grow Japanese painted fern.
hart's tongue fern
Asplenium scolopendrium
hart's tongue fern
Asplenium scolopendrium (Crispum Group)
hart's tongue fern
Asplenium scolopendrium (Undulatum Group)
Japanese painted fern
Athyrium niponicum var. pictum 'Apple Court'
Japanese painted fern
Athyrium niponicum var. pictum 'Burgundy Lace'
Japanese painted fern
Athyrium niponicum var. pictum 'Red Beauty'
Japanese painted fern
Athyrium niponicum var. pictum 'Silver Falls'
Japanese painted fern
Athyrium niponicum var. pictum 'Ursula's Red'