Athyrium filix-femina 'Lady Fern'

Lady Fern

A graceful, classic deciduous fern valued for its soft, finely divided bright green fronds and elegant, arching habit. Lady fern is easy to grow, adaptable, and a cornerstone plant for woodland and shade gardens, providing lush texture from spring through fall.

Key features



Width: 24–36 in (2–3 ft)



Height: 24–48 in (2–4 ft)



Foliage: Bright green, finely cut, feathery fronds



Form: Upright to arching, vase-shaped clump



Texture: 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 3–8



Landscape use



Woodland and shade gardens



Naturalized plantings



Perennial borders



Foundation plantings



Mass plantings for soft texture



Notes



Native to North America, Europe, and Asia



Generally deer resistant



Fast growing and easy to establish



Excellent contrast with broad-leaved shade plants



Cut back old fronds in late winter or early spring

Plant type

Fern

Height

24-48"

Width

24-36"

Hardiness zones

3–7

Sunlight

Full Shade, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Soil

Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Groundcover, Mass Planting, Rock Garden

Shape

Vase Shaped

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No