lady fern

Athyrium vidalii

FernAspleniaceae

lady fern
Rabbit-resistant
USDA zones5 to 9
SunHandles partial shade to full shade
WaterNeeds moderate soil
Size1.5 to 2.5 feet tall1.5 to 2.5 feet wide
Bloom color
Non-flowering

Notes

Lady fern (Athyrium vidalii) is a fern for woodland gardens, shade borders, and naturalized areas. It is hardy to USDA zone 5, or down to -20°F (-29°C). This plant likes part to full shade and average moisture. Rabbits rarely make it their first choice. It grows 18 to 30 inches tall and wide, so give it room to form a soft mound. It does not flower, so its lacy fronds carry the show.

Pairs well with Bergenia, Climbing hydrangea, and Northern sea oats.

Native range

Eastern Asia.