Athyrium niponicum ‘Metallicum’

Painted Lady Fern

Athyrium niponicum f. metallicum, the Painted Lady Fern, is a deciduous fern with lacy fronds washed in silver-grey and flushed with purple and red along the ribs. Small in size with a bushy habit, it brings unique colour to shaded borders and rock gardens. Holding the RHS Award of Garden Merit, it is both dependable and decorative. A standout fern for Irish shady corners.

Size

Max Height

0.1 m — 0.5 m

Max Spread

0.1 m — 0.5 m

Growth Habit

Densely branched plant with compact, leafy, rounded overall shape.

Planting Position

Sunlight i Indicates how much direct sunlight the plant needs each day. Full sun means 6+ hours, part shade is filtered or morning sun, and full shade is little to no direct sun.

Full Shade Part Shade

Aspect i Aspect refers to the direction the planting spot faces (north, south, east or west). It affects light levels, warmth and exposure.

North East

Exposure i Exposure describes how sheltered or exposed a plant’s position is, particularly to wind and weather.

Sheltered

Hardiness i Hardiness indicates how well a plant tolerates cold conditions outdoors. Higher ratings generally mean greater frost tolerance.

(−15 to −10 °C) Cold-hardy

Ideal Soil Conditions

Soil Type i Soil type describes the texture of the soil (clay, sand, loam, chalk). This affects drainage, nutrients and how roots grow.

Clay Loam Sand

Soil Moisture i Soil moisture tells you how wet or dry the soil should be for best growth. Match this to your garden conditions for healthier plants.

Moist but permeable / Free draining

Soil pH i Soil pH measures how acidic or alkaline the soil is. It affects nutrient availability and can impact plant growth.

Acid Neutral

Plant Uses & Merits

Uses

Patios / Courtyards
Rockeries
Flower Borders

Merits

Generally disease-free
Generally pest-free
No pruning required
RHS | Award Of Garden Merit

Athyrium niponicum ‘Metallicum’

Painted Lady Fern

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Athyrium niponicum ‘Metallicum’

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