Lady Fern (Athyrium filix-femina) is a groundcover with 3 foot long green fronds. They prefer moist to mesic soil in shade to part sun. Colonies typically form as the plants mature, which makes them a good choice for groundcovers on shaded slopes, banks, or basins. Companion plants include Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum) and Rosy Sedge (Carex rosea).
Maintenance
No serious maintenance needs. Leaves may appear tattered by mid- to late summer.
About
Light Requirements
Part Sun,
Shade Moisture Requirements
Banks,
Slopes,
Basin Soil Requirements
Clay,
Most Soils,
Organically Rich Soil Height
Short Spacing
1 to 3 feet Category
Groundcover Illinois Native Plant Status
Yes Seasonality
Fall,
Summer Sociability
Groups of 5-10 Other Notable Cultivars & Varieties
Athyrium filix–femina var. angustum ‘Lady in Red’