Athyrium niponicum var. 'Pictum' (Japanese Painted Fern)

Athyrium niponicum var. ‘Pictum’ (Japanese Painted Fern ‘Pictum’) is a graceful, clump-forming fern prized for its silvery-green fronds streaked with deep purple midribs that mature to a soft green. Ideal for adding delicate texture and subtle colour contrast to shady spots, it thrives in part to full shade in rich, moist, well-drained soil. Hardy in Canadian zones 4–8, it’s low-maintenance and deer-resistant, perfect for woodland gardens, shaded borders or container plantings.

Key Features
• Botanical name: Athyrium niponicum var. ‘Pictum’
• Common name: Japanese Painted Fern ‘Pictum’
• Hardiness zones: Canada Zone 4–8
• Exposure: Part shade to full shade
• Soil: Rich, moist, well-drained; high in organic matter
• Height: 30–45 cm (12–18 in)
• Width: 45–60 cm (18–24 in)
• Foliage: Silvery-green fronds with purple midribs turning soft green
• Spores: Produced on underside of mature fronds
• Maintenance: Low; trim back old fronds in late winter or early spring
• Advantages: Striking foliage colour; excellent shade tolerance; deer-resistant; adds textural interest in shade