Product Description
Athyrium niponicum 'Crested Surf' PPAF (4) 1-gallons
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.
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 niponicum 'Crested Surf' is a unique and eye-catching Japanese painted fern that adds a touch of whimsy and elegance to shade gardens. It is admired for its distinctive crested fronds, which give it a ruffled, almost wave-like appearance. Here is a closer look at what makes it special:
Appearance:
- Fronds: 'Crested Surf' features the same beautiful coloration as other Japanese painted ferns, with silvery-gray fronds accented by burgundy midribs. However, what sets it apart is the unique double cresting at the tips of each frond. This gives the fronds a ruffled, three-dimensional appearance, resembling the crest of a wave. The fronds typically grow to about 20-22 inches long.
- Spores: Like other ferns, 'Crested Surf' reproduces through spores, which develop in small structures called sori on the undersides of the fronds.
Growing Conditions:
- Light: Thrives in partial shade to full shade. While it can tolerate some sun, especially in cooler climates, it is best to protect it from the harsh afternoon sun. The silvery coloration is often more pronounced in light shade.
- Soil: Prefers humusy, organically rich, moist, well-drained soil. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist, as 'Crested Surf' does not tolerate dry conditions well.
- Hardiness Zones: Hardy in USDA zones 3-8, making it suitable for a wide range of climates.
Uses:
- Shade Gardens: Its shade tolerance and unique fronds make it a standout addition to shade gardens.
- Woodland Gardens: It is also a great addition to woodland gardens, where it can naturalize and create a beautiful, textured groundcover.
- Borders and Edging: 'Crested Surf' can be used to create stunning borders or to edge walkways and garden beds.
- Containers: It is also well-suited for containers, adding a touch of elegance and whimsy to patios and balconies.
Additional Benefits:
- Deer and Rabbit Resistant: The foliage is generally unappealing to deer and rabbits.
- Low Maintenance: It is a relatively low-maintenance plant that does not require much care once established.
- Air Purifier: Like other ferns, it can help to purify the air by removing toxins.
Overall, Athyrium niponicum 'Crested Surf' is a delightful and unique fern that is sure to become a conversation starter in any shade garden. Its distinctive crested fronds, beautiful coloration, and adaptability make it a favorite among gardeners.
(4) 1-gallon containers ready to plant, plants may be trimmed for shipping,
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!
