Product Description
Athyrium niponicum 'Crested Surf' PP33057 CPBRAF (20)ct Flat
Common Name: Crested Japanese Painted Fern
'Crested Surf' looks similar in color to a traditional Japanese Painted Fern, but the tips of the fronds are double crested. A vigorous, taller variety that can fit the middle of the border. Perfect for moist, shady areas of the garden.
Athyrium grows best in moist soil with a neutral to moderately acidic pH. Partial to full shade is best. 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.
Farwest Best in Show -- 2019
Greenhouse Grower's Medal of Excellence Editor's Choice for Best New Variety Finalist -- 2019
Height: 20.0-22.0 Inches
Spread: 28.0-30.0 Inches
Hardiness Zones: 3,4,5,6,7,8
Foliage Color: Green shades; Silver/grey shades
Part Shade (4-6 hrs. Direct Sun) to 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, Attractive Foliage, Specimen
Athyrium n. 'Crested Surf' fern, commonly known as the Crested Japanese Painted Fern, is a unique and visually appealing variety of fern that is prized for its distinctive frond tips and silvery-green foliage. This deciduous fern is a cultivar of the Japanese painted fern (Athyrium niponicum) and is part of the Athyriaceae family. It is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is hardy in USDA zones 3-8. With its unique appearance and ease of care, the Crested Japanese Painted Fern is an excellent choice for gardeners of all skill levels looking to add a touch of elegance to their shade gardens.
Appearance The Crested Japanese Painted Fern is admired for its striking foliage. The fronds are silvery-green with a gray sheen and have dark burgundy or black stems on the new growth. Imagine this fern gracing your garden with its captivating presence, its fronds unfurling like delicate silver ribbons, each leaflet delicately painted with hues of red and silver. The most distinctive feature of this fern is its doubly branched or crested frond tips, which give it a unique "under sea" look, almost as if it were swaying gently in an underwater current. In spring, the fronds emerge in a rich deep purple, gradually transforming into a mesmerizing grayish-green with white variegation and silver tinges as the season progresses. The name "Athyrium" originates from the Greek word "athyros," meaning "doorless," which refers to the fern's inconspicuous indusium, a small flap of tissue that protects the spore cases.
Care Requirements The Crested Japanese Painted Fern is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but providing the right growing conditions will ensure its health and vibrancy.
- Light This fern thrives in partial to full shade, capturing the dappled light filtering through the canopy of trees or gracing a shaded corner of your garden. While it can tolerate some gentle morning sun, it is best to shield it from the intense afternoon sunlight, which can scorch its delicate fronds. The silvery frond color is most vibrant when grown in light shade, creating a striking contrast against the surrounding greenery.
- Water Consistent moisture is essential for this fern, especially during the growing season when it actively produces new fronds. Water regularly, allowing the soil to slightly dry between waterings to prevent the roots from becoming waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be detrimental to the fern's health.
- Soil The Crested Japanese Painted Fern prefers humusy, organically rich, moist, well-drained soils. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand, as long as the soil is well-drained and retains some moisture. Amending the soil with compost or other organic matter can improve drainage and soil structure, creating an ideal environment for the fern's roots to thrive. Interestingly, this fern exhibits greater tolerance for both seasonal flooding and drier soils with regular watering compared to other fern species.
- Fertilizer This fern is not a heavy feeder and generally does not require fertilization if the soil is already rich in organic matter. If you choose to fertilize, a slow-release, balanced fertilizer applied once a year in spring is sufficient to provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.
- Pests and Diseases One of the remarkable qualities of the Crested Japanese Painted Fern is its resistance to pests and diseases. It is generally free from serious insect or disease problems, making it a low-maintenance and worry-free addition to your garden. It is also rabbit resistant.
- Planting Time The best time to plant the Crested Japanese Painted Fern is in the spring or fall. Planting during these seasons allows the fern to establish itself before facing the stresses of summer heat or winter cold.
- Maintenance The Crested Japanese Painted Fern requires minimal maintenance. Dead or damaged fronds can be removed as needed to maintain their tidy appearance. To protect the crowns and tender shoots in spring, it is best to leave the old fronds on the plant over winter and remove them in spring when the new fronds reach 6 inches tall.
- Hardiness Zones The Crested Japanese Painted Fern is hardy in USDA zones 3-8. This wide range of hardiness makes it suitable for various climates, from the cold winters of zone 3 to the warmer climates of zone 8.
Companion Planting The Crested Japanese Painted Fern's unique texture and color make it an excellent companion for a variety of plants. Consider pairing it with hostas, whose bold foliage provides a striking contrast, or with heucheras, whose colorful leaves complement the fern's silvery tones.
The Athyrium n. 'Crested Surf' fern, with its uniquely crested fronds, silvery-green foliage, and adaptability to various shade conditions, is a captivating addition to any garden. Its low-maintenance nature, hardiness, and resistance to pests and diseases make it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Whether planted in a woodland setting, along a shaded border, or as a focal point in a container, the Crested Japanese Painted Fern is sure to bring a touch of elegance and tranquility to your outdoor space. Remember to provide it with partial to full shade, consistent moisture, and well-drained soil, and it will reward you with its captivating beauty for years to come.
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!
