Product Description
Athyrium filix-femina' Lady in Red' (20)ct Flat
Common Name: Lady Fern, Northern Lady Fern
Vibrant red-burgundy stipes (stems), creates a sharp contrast with its lacy, green fronds. Stems red color becomes more vivid after second dormancy. Limit nitrogen (production of green chlorophyll) to intensify red.
Tissue culture of plant found by the New England Willower Society in the woodlands o f Massachusetts.
This hardy deciduous grows best in organically rich, moist well-drained soil with a neutral to moderately acidic pH. If the frond edges become scorched or crispy, the soil may be too dry. Add 2 to 3 inches of compost or peat moss to the beds each spring or fall. Use in containers, as a ground cover or for borders in woodland, shady locations.
Partial to full shade is best; though some sunlight is necessary to draw out the best frond color. This fern's vibrant burgundy stems coupled with its dark green fronds will compliment everything else in your shade garden. When planted amidst the dark purple leaves of coral bells, its burgundy stems really stand out. To protect the crowns and tender shoots in the spring, it is best to leave the old fronds on the plant over the winter. They can be removed in the spring when the new fronds reach 6 inches tall. If division is necessary, do so in the spring.
Athyrium grows best in moist soil with a neutral to moderately acidic pH. Partial to full shade is best; some sunlight is necessary to draw out the coloring. To protect the crowns and tender shoots in the spring, it is best to leave the old fronds on the plant over the winter. They can be removed in the spring when the new fronds reach 6 inches tall. If division is necessary, do so in the spring.
Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit -- 2012
Height: 30.0-36.0 Inches
Spread: 24.0 Inches
Hardiness Zones: 3,4,5,6,7,8
Foliage Color: Green shades, Deciduous
Part Shade (4-6 hrs. Direct Sun) - Full Shade (< 4 hrs. Direct Sun)
Average to Consistent Water Needs
Poor to Fertile Soil Quality
Rabbit Resistant
Growth Rate: Medium
Border Plant, Container, Cut Foliage, Ground Cover, Attractive Foliage
Athyrium filix-femina 'Lady in Red' fern, also known as the Lady in Red fern. It covers various aspects of this captivating plant, including its characteristics, growing conditions, care requirements, and potential uses in the garden. The information presented here was gathered through a meticulous research process, which involved examining images of the fern, analyzing its features, exploring suitable growing conditions, and identifying nurseries and online retailers where it can be purchased.
Athyrium filix-femina 'Lady in Red', commonly known as the Lady in Red fern, is a captivating deciduous fern prized for its unique coloration and delicate foliage. This cultivar of the northern lady fern (Athyrium filix-femina var. angustum) distinguishes itself with its vibrant red-burgundy stipes (stems) that create a striking contrast against the lacy, light green fronds. This fern is a true standout in any shade garden, offering a touch of elegance and vibrancy to the landscape.
Characteristics The Lady in Red fern typically grows to a height of 24-36 inches, with some specimens reaching up to 48 inches. It spreads about 24 inches wide and can reach up to 3 feet in 5 years. Its fronds are lacy and light green, creating a delicate and airy appearance. The vibrant red-burgundy stems intensify in color as the plant matures, adding to its visual appeal. The contrast between the brightly colored stipes and the green fronds is particularly striking. This fern is known for its fast growth and ease of cultivation, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. It was discovered by a volunteer at The New England Wildflower Society. The Lady in Red fern is also tolerant of rabbits.
Some taxonomists debate whether Athyrium angustum should be considered a subspecies of Athyrium filix-femina or a separate species. Because ferns do not flower, they are not a draw for pollinators.
Growing Conditions The Lady in Red fern thrives in partial to full shade and prefers fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil with a neutral to moderately acidic pH. While it prefers moist soil, it is more tolerant of drier conditions than many other ferns. It can even tolerate full sun if the soil is kept consistently moist. To protect the fronds from breaking, it is best to provide a sheltered location away from strong winds. The plant may go dormant during prolonged droughts. It thrives in both clay and sandy soil, although a humus-rich soil is preferred. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution.
Care This fern requires minimal care. It is best to leave the old fronds on the plant over winter to protect the crowns and tender shoots from frost. These can be removed in the spring when new fronds emerge. If necessary, divide the clumps in spring to maintain the plant's vigor and health. If fronds become tattered, they can be cut to the ground, and new fronds will emerge.
Uses The Lady in Red fern is a versatile plant that can be used in various settings. It is an excellent choice for:
- Shady beds and borders, where its vibrant red stems can provide a striking contrast against other shade-loving plants.
- Underplanting shrubs, adding texture and color to the understory.
- Cottage gardens, where their delicate foliage can create a sense of whimsy and romance.
- Woodland gardens, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
- Shaded areas along streams or ponds, where it can thrive in the moist environment.
- Groundcover in shaded areas.
- Fresh arrangements, adding a touch of elegance to bouquets.
This fern makes a great blending plant for hosta and other bold-leaf plants in the woodland garden. It can be accented with other shade-loving natives like Jack in the Pulpit, Christmas Fern, and Giant Solomon's Seal.
The Athyrium filix-femina 'Lady in Red' is a stunning and low-maintenance fern that adds a touch of color and texture to any shade garden. Its unique red stems and delicate green fronds make it a standout plant, and its adaptability to various soil and light conditions makes it an excellent choice for gardeners of all levels. Whether used as a focal point or as part of a larger planting scheme, the Lady in Red fern is sure to enhance the beauty of any garden. It creates a sense of tranquility and provides habitat for beneficial wildlife.
Other Details
The most important part of the plant is its root system. Healthy roots are the foundation of a healthy, vibrant plant. The type of plug container used is based on the specific needs of the plants. Perennials offered as bare root traditionally perform better when planted as bare root.Planted in a specialized mix, potted plants have well established root systems. Top growth stage will vary depending on the current life cycle and time of year when shipped. In Winter and early Spring dormant plants may be shipped. Dormant plants may be planted right away, even before the last frost date.
Most bare root varieties are field grown for at least one season, though Hemerocallis and Hosta are grown for two seasons. The bulk of the soil is removed during the harvesting process and the tops of most varieties are trimmed back to the crown. They are graded, packed in shredded aspen or sphagnum moss and stored in freezers until ready to be shipped.
See our Container Sizes and Bare Root Perennials pages for more information.
Plant information and care is provided in the Overview section, Plant Genus Page and general information is provided in the Planting Care & Guides. Additional questions can be asked on each Plant page.
Plant Spacing: Using the maximum mature spread or width of a plant to guide spacing, ensures space to grow to full size. To fill an area sooner, plant them closer together. Just remember, future thinning or transplanting may be needed.
Water: Keep a close eye on newly planted perennials, especially throughout the first growing year. Most early plant loss is due to too much or too little water!
