Japanese painted fern
Athyrium niponicum var. pictum 'Red Beauty'
Overview
The Japanese painted fern (Athyrium niponicum var. pictum 'Red Beauty') is an amazing plant species. The fronds of the fern feature a deep purple color with burgundy veins, and a silver midrib. This stunning contrast makes this fern a beautiful and eye-catching addition to any garden. Additionally, it's easy to maintain, requiring low to medium light and occasional watering. It tolerates less than ideal conditions, making it ideal even for novice gardeners. It also grows quickly, becoming larger and spreading wider with time. The Japanese painted fern is the perfect plant for adding a unique and stunning pop of color to any garden.
Care Guide
Watering
Japanese painted ferns prefer moist, but not soggy soil. Water the ferns deeply and evenly, until there is a slight pool of water in the container. Allow the excess to drain, and then empty the dish beneath the pot. Water every 3-5 days depending on the temperature and humidity of the air. In warmer weather and more humid environments, water every 3 days. In cooler temperatures and less humid environments, water every 5 days.
Light
Japanese painted ferns need a moderate amount of sunlight and will do best in part shade to part sun situations. During the spring and summer months, indirect light should be adequate. During the winter months, more light can be provided by placing the fern in a south-facing window that receives 3 to 4 hours of direct sunlight every day. As with all plants, be sure to monitor the growth and watch for signs of too much light such as yellowing or drying foliage.
Soil
Humus rich, Well-drained
Temperature
Hardiness zone 3–8.
Pruning
Japanese painted ferns should be pruned in early summer, when they are actively growing. Pruning should be done lightly; only remove dead or damaged leaves, and trim off any fronds that have become too long or are browning at the tips. This will help keep the plant's shape and stimulate new growth. Re-pot the plant if necessary.
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 'Pewter Lace'
Japanese painted fern
Athyrium niponicum var. pictum 'Silver Falls'
Japanese painted fern
Athyrium niponicum var. pictum 'Ursula's Red'