
Japanese Painted Fern
Type: Deciduous fern (it dies down in winter but comes back every year).
Bloom: None (ferns do not flower; they are grown for their foliage) Blue-green fronds variegated with silver and a hint of burgundy.
Size: 18” H x 18” W.
Light: Partial Shade to shade. They tolerate some sun if well watered but will loose their color in too much sun.
Soil: High in organic matter; acid pH 5.5-6.5.
Fertilizer: Do not fertilize; mulch with organic matter.
Hardiness: Zones 3-9.
Care: Use a compost of peat moss in spring to maintain acid pH; cut away dead fronds in spring.
Pests and Diseases: none of importance
Propagation: Division of rhizomes
Companion Plants: Blue-green leafed Hosta, pink astilbe, Tiarella, old fashion bleeding heart, columbine, Heuchera ‘Silver Scrolls’, sweet woodruff, Lenten rose.
Outstanding Selections: ‘Pictum’ (also known as ‘Metalicum’) is readily available but others may be found, including ‘Ursula’s Red’ deep burgundy with silver; ‘Burgundy Lace’ with redder blush than ‘Pictum’; ‘Red Beauty’ with redder midrib and veins than ‘Pictum’.
