Athyrium felix femina, Lady Fern

Pots of second year Lady Fern at the nursery.

Lady Fern is probably my favorite of the woodland ferns growing at Shelterwood. Unlike some of its cousins, like Sensitive Fern or Ostrich Fern., this tough, yet delicate-looking fern will not spread aggressively.  Given its slower spread, if you want a patch, it is best to plant a patch! These make great companions to several woodland species like Woodland Geranium, Jack in the Pulpit, Large-flowered Bellwort, Large-flowered Trillium, Cutleaf Toothwort, Ramps, Wild Blue Phlox, Blue Cohosh, Early Meadow Rue, Wild Ginger, and more.

Blooms: n/a

Height: 16 to 24 inches

Conditions: shade to pt shade, moist to medium soils, more sun requires more moisture.

Lady Fern, springtime, unfurling in its natural woodland habitat.

Lady Fern, from above, edge of lawn.