Overview
Athyrium filix-femina is a clump forming bogs in the genus Athyrium, part of the Woodsiaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 5-10 years. Athyrium filix-femina grows best in full shade and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acid and neutral pH.
About
Athyrium filix-femina, the lady fern or common lady-fern, is a large, feathery species of fern native to temperate Asia, Europe, North America, and North Africa. It is often abundant (one of the more common ferns) in damp, shady woodland environments and is often grown for decoration. Its common names "lady fern" and "female fern" refer to how its reproductive structures (sori) are concealed in an inconspicuous – deemed "female" – manner on the frond. Alternatively, it is said to be feminine because of its elegant and graceful appearance. Mature plants reach roughly 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, carrying deciduous foliage. In the garden it prefers full shade and partial shade and most soil types. It tolerates acid and neutral soils, moist but well-drained conditions and north-facing and east-facing aspects.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Athyrium filix-femina
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Athyrium
- Sunlight
- Full shade, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
Plant details
Athyrium filix-femina size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Bogs, Ferns
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 5-10 years
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Athyrium filix-femina?
Athyrium filix-femina prefers full shade and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Athyrium filix-femina need?
Athyrium filix-femina is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How big does Athyrium filix-femina grow?
Athyrium filix-femina reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 5-10 years to reach full size.
More in the Athyrium genus
- Athyrium filix-femina 'Frizelliae Capitatum'
- Athyrium filix-femina 'Minor'
- Athyrium filix-femina 'Victoriae' seedling
- Athyrium pycnocarponglade fern
- Athyrium vidalii
- Athyrium macrocarpum
- Athyrium nip. pictum 'Metallicum'Lady Fern
- Athyrium reflexipinnum