Eared Lady Fern

Eared Lady Fern (Athyrium otophorum)

Eared Lady Fern (Athyrium otophorum) is a distinctive deciduous fern admired for its elegant, arching fronds with soft green hues and striking burgundy stems. This shade-loving fern provides a refined, textural element to woodland gardens, shaded borders, and container plantings.

Distinctive Features

Eared Lady Fern features finely divided, bright green fronds that emerge with a soft, golden tint before maturing to a rich green. Its bold burgundy stems create a striking contrast, adding depth and visual interest to shaded garden spaces.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Prefers partial to full shade.
• Soil: Moist, well-draining, rich in organic matter.
• Water: Prefers consistent moisture but does not tolerate soggy conditions.
• Humidity: Thrives in moderate to high humidity environments.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-9.

Ideal Uses

• Woodland Gardens: Enhances shaded areas with soft texture and color contrast.
• Shaded Borders & Beds: Provides a lush, layered look in shaded landscapes.
• Container Gardens: Thrives in pots, making it ideal for shaded patios.
• Fern & Native Plant Gardens: A perfect companion for other shade-loving perennials.

Low Maintenance Care

Eared Lady Fern is easy to grow with minimal care when provided with the right moisture and shade conditions.

• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained.
• Pruning: Trim back old fronds in early spring to encourage fresh growth.
• Fertilizing: Apply a light dose of compost or a balanced fertilizer in spring.
• Propagation: Best propagated by division in early spring or fall.

Why Choose Eared Lady Fern?

With its soft green fronds, bold burgundy stems, and adaptability to shade, Eared Lady Fern is an excellent choice for adding texture and depth to shaded gardens.

• Elegant Color Contrast: Green fronds accented by deep burgundy stems.
• Shade-Loving: Thrives in low-light conditions.
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established.
• Compact Growth: Ideal for small gardens and container plantings.
• Versatile Placement: Perfect for woodland gardens, borders, and shaded patio displays.

For those looking to introduce refined texture and striking color contrast to their shaded landscapes, Eared Lady Fern (Athyrium otophorum) is an excellent choice.