Unusual Ferns for Gardens

Ferns are most often used as a 'filler' plant in shade and woodland gardens. Some of the more unusual fern varieties have such striking foliage and texture, they can stand alone. Others can provide contrasts to the more subdued plants in the garden.

Athyrium felix-femina 'Frizelliae' (Tatting Fern) does not much resemble a fern at all. Tiny scalloped leaves atop long stems give this fern an airy appearance. It looks good combined with hostas or other plants with large foliage. This fern is easy to grow, but will not tolerate heavy clay or summer dry spells. Division can be done in the spring. Hardy to zone 4.

Adiantum venustum and Adiantum pedatum (Hardy Maidenhair Fern) have such delicate foliage they appear less hardy than they really are. Adiantum venustum is hardy to zone 5, and Adiantum pedatum to zone 3. These ferns enjoy full shade, and at least some humidity. This makes them a great selection for shady areas around ponds and waterfalls. Soil should be full of organic matter, loose and easily worked. Clumps spread by rhizomes, and can be gently divided in early spring once the clump reaches a good size.

Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum' (Japanese Painted Fern) is a fern that appears to have been sprayed with a silvery metallic paint. Shades of red and black also occur on the fronds. It grows from 12-14" tall, and spreads into a clump about two feet across. Good loamy soil and regular summer water are needed to keep the color. This fern does not like to dry out. Peat moss can be added to the planting hole to add acidity and retain moisture. Best of all, Athyrium is hardy to zone 3. This is one of the most visually stunning ferns to plant in a dark woodland garden, especially in masses. Division can be accomplished in early spring, making sure each division has at least five to six potential fiddleheads.

Dryopteris erythrosora (Autumn Fern) glows in the shade garden. Pink fiddleheads unfurl to reveal coppery orange and pale gold fronds that turn green as they mature. New growth is continually developing, with the result that this fern appears a constant combination of green, gold, and pink. It is a medium sized fern at about 24" tall and the same wide. It is hardy to zone 5, but will remain evergreen in some milder areas such as parts of the pacific northwest. It also exhibits good fall color. This plant prefers full to partial shade, and well drained soil with plenty of organic matter. It does not like to dry out for extended periods. Any wilting of the foliage indicates water stress. Clay soil or compacted soil is not recommended for this fern.