Athyrium 'Ghost'

Ghost Fern

A striking hybrid fern prized for its upright, silvery-gray fronds with contrasting dark midribs. ‘Ghost’ combines the elegance of Japanese painted ferns with the sturdiness and vertical habit of lady fern, making it one of the best architectural ferns for shade gardens.

Key features



Width: 18–24 in (1.5–2 ft)



Height: 24–36 in (2–3 ft)



Foliage: Silvery-gray with dark purple to black midribs



Form: Upright, vase-shaped clump



Texture: Medium to fine



Life cycle: Herbaceous perennial fern (deciduous)



Growing conditions



Sun: Part shade to full shade (tolerates some morning sun)



Soil: Moist, rich, well-drained; prefers humus-rich soils



Water: Moderate; consistent moisture preferred



Hardiness: USDA Zones 4–8



Landscape use



Shade and woodland gardens



Perennial borders



Foundation plantings



Mass plantings for contrast



Companion to hostas, astilbes, and heuchera



Notes



Excellent upright habit compared to most painted ferns



Deer resistant



Outstanding foliage contrast even in deep shade



Slower spreading; maintains a neat clump



Cut back old fronds in late winter or early spring

Plant type

Fern

Height

24-30"

Width

18-24"

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Shade, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Mid Spring

Flower color

Medium Orchid

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Soil

Loamy

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Mass Planting

Shape

Clump, Upright

Drought tolerant

No