Perennials

Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum'

Japanese painted fern

Japanese painted fern foliage. selection photograph

Silvery fronds are shaded purple near their centers, with reddish-purple stems. A low, layered fern for cool woodland planting. Grow in moist, humus-rich soil, neutral to slightly acidic.

At a glance

Sun: Light to part shade
Mature size: 12–18 in. tall × 24 in. wide
Water: Consistently moist soil
Hardiness: USDA zones 3–8
Bloom: None; a foliage fern.

Sizes & prices

#1$16.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

Ask about this plant

Select a section to expand.

Resistance & tolerances

Rabbits: Resistant, not browse-proof.
Drought: Keep soil moist, especially while establishing.
Wet soil: Moist garden soil preferred; not a standing-water planting.

Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Silver-gray with purple accents.
Form: Low mound; slowly forms colonies.

Growing & care

Winter: Leave old fronds to protect the crown; remove as new growth develops.
Division: Divide in spring when needed.

Sources & photo credits

Walters Gardens

Photo: David J. Stang · CC BY-SA 4.0

Image notes: Japanese painted fern foliage. selection photograph; uncropped.

Reviewed September 19, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.