'Ursula's Red' Japanese painted fern (Athyrium niponicum var. pictum 'Ursula's Red') ah-THEER-ee-um nih-PON-ih-kum variety PIK-tum Genus:  Athyrium The broad silvery leaves of ‘Ursula’s Red’ have a showy burgundy band at the center of the leaves in spring. This plant can double in size in a single growing season, as it spreads from rhizomes. Though deer do like it, it may simply grow more fronds and not show any lasting damage. --Michael Ruggiero, Regional Picks: Mid-Atlantic, Fine Gardening issue #127 Noteworthy Characteristics:  It forms a tight, hardy ground cover when plants are placed about 1 foot apart. Care:  Loose, fertile, moist soil. 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 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Shade Only Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Low Characteristics Showy Foliage Foliage Color Colorful/Burgundy Foliage Uses Beds and Borders, Ground Covers Style Shade, Woodland Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Type Fern