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

Japanese painted fern

Athyrium niponicum var. pictum 'Silver Falls'

Japanese painted fern is a unique and beautiful fern, known for its vivid and stunning red-purple fronds. Its common name comes from the silvery mottled pattern it has on its leaves, making it look like it has been painted on! Its low, prostrate habit combines well with other plants, both in the garden and in containers. Its adaptable nature means it will tolerate both moist and dry conditions and wide ranges of temperatures. Its foliage also changes seasonally, adding an ever-changing beauty to the landscape. A dynamic and attractive part of the garden, Japanese painted fern is an amazing plant.

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:

silver,purple Fruits In Summer Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

silver,purple,gray,gray

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Water Japanese Painted Fern (Athyrium niponicum var. pictum 'Silver Falls') as soon as the top ½ inch of soil is dry. It is adaptable to a range of light levels, however, it will look best in high humidity areas with bright, indirect light or dappled shade. When preparing the soil, ensure the soil stays evenly moist and well-drained. During the hotter months, make sure to water the plant thoroughly weekly, or more frequently if the soil begins to look dry. In colder months, water only when necessary – about every 2 to 3 weeks.

sunlight

Japanese painted ferns require bright indirect light year round. They do well in locations that receive a few hours of direct sunlight each day, preferably in the morning or late afternoon, as they can become scorched by intense midday light. While they don't require full sun, they benefit from supplemental lighting when natural light is in short supply. During the warmer months, they will do best when they receive approximately 4 hours of direct sunlight each day.

pruning

Japanese painted ferns should be pruned twice a year, once in late spring and once in late summer or early fall. When pruning in late spring, cut old fronds just above the crown of the plant. In late summer or early fall, cut the entire plant back to just above the soil line. This will help to stimulate new growth and ensure the fern remains healthy and attractive. Be careful not to over-prune, as this can damage the plant.

Season

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

Harvesting of the Japanese painted fern should begin in late summer, typically August or September.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of the Japanese painted fern should begin in late summer, typically August or September.

Hardiness Map