Athyrium filix-femina subsp. angustum f. rubellum 'Lady in Red'

RHS Plant Profile
northern lady fern 'Lady in Red'

Synonyms

Athyrium angustum 'Lady in Red'
Athyrium niponicum 'Lady in Red'
Athyrium filix-femina var. angustum 'Lady in Red'

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Ferns

An upright, slowly-spreading, deciduous fern with erect to arching, bright red stems bearing lance-shaped leaflets on green fronds.

Position

Partial shade

Soil Types

Loam, Sand, Clay

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam Sand Clay
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Neutral or Acid

Position

Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Woodsiaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus
Athyrium are deciduous ferns with erect or creeping rhizomes bearing usually pinnate to tripinnate fronds, often of thin texture, and they are especially shade-tolerant
Name Status
Accepted

How to Grow

Cultivation

Plant in moist but free draining, neutral to acid soil in a lightly shaded site. Will grow in full sun if given plenty of moisture. Colourful stems usually develop a year or two after planting and will be less prominant in deeper shade. For more information see our advice page how to grow ferns.

Propagation

Propagate by division

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Underplanting of roses and shrubs
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Can remove faded fronds in early winter or leave until spring before new growth emerges.

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free