Japanese painted fern (Athyrium niponicum var. 'Pictum') ah-THEER-ee-um nih-PON-ih-kum Synonyms:  Athyrium niponicum var. pictum, f. metalicum Genus:  Athyrium This fern has cool, grey-green, almost silvery, foliage and reddish-purple stalks that are useful for brightening dark spots in borders. It is deciduous, and although it reaches only 8 to 12 inches in height, it is easy to grow, prolific, and easily divided. Noteworthy Characteristics:  It forms a tight, hardy ground cover when plants are placed about 1 foot apart. Athyrium niponicum ‘Pictum’ was the 2004 Perennial Plant of the Year. Care:  Provide light to full shade and well-drained, rich, moist soil, preferably in a humid environment. Propagation:  Divide in spring. Problems:  Prone to rust.

Overview

Height 6 in. to 12 in. Growth Habit Clumps Light Part Shade to Full Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Low Characteristics Showy Foliage Foliage Color Colorful/Burgundy Foliage Uses Beds and Borders, Ground Covers, Indoor Plant Style Shade, Woodland Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Type Fern