Athyrium nipponicum 'Pictum' (Japanese Painted Fern) 

The Japanese Painted Fern features large fronds with beautiful blue and purple stems and dusty gray foliage. It is a sure stand-out in any shade garden as it grows large and is a reliable performer each year. It grows low and wide, so it makes a great ground cover. Requires adequate water and shade.

Terrific for edging the shade border, in the rock garden, in mixed containers. Deciduous. Light to partial shade is best; some sunlight is necessary to produce vibrant coloring. To protect the crowns and tender shoots in the spring, it is best to leave the old fronds on the plant over the winter. They can be removed in the spring when the new fronds reach 6 inches tall. If division is necessary, do so in the spring. Leaves may be trimmed to the ground in late fall or early spring. Plants are easily divided in spring, every 3 to 4 years.

Pairs well with Heuchera, Liriope, Galium, Hosta, other types of Ferns.

Available in quarts and gallons.