Species Japanese painted fern
Green leaves with light-purple stems.

Japanese painted fern

Athyrium niponicum var. pictum 'Pewter Lace'

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!

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers

Sun:

Deep shade, Filtered shade, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Humus rich, Well-drained

Fruits:

purple,black Fruits In Summer Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

silver,green,gray,gray

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Care Level:

Medium

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.

sunlight

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.

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.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Athyrium niponicum var. pictum 'Pewter Lace' typically begins in June and continues through August.

Hardiness Map