Species

16 other cultivars

fern

Pictum Japanese Painted Fern

Q: What zones can Pictum Japanese Painted Fern grow in?

Pictum Japanese Painted Fern is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Q: Is Pictum Japanese Painted Fern deer resistant?

Yes — Pictum Japanese Painted Fern is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

Q: When does Pictum Japanese Painted Fern bloom?

Pictum Japanese Painted Fern typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Q: Does Pictum Japanese Painted Fern need full sun?

Pictum Japanese Painted Fern does best in part shade.

Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum'

$13.00

The Story

Plant Bio

Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum' is a deciduous fern with finely dissected leaves that have a striking silvery/green variegation, making it a popular choice for shaded gardens.

This cultivar is particularly noted for its attractive foliage which provides year-round interest and is resistant to deer and rabbits.

Uses & Benefits:

Athyrium niponicum Pictum offers striking silvery foliage that adds texture and contrast to shaded gardens, creating a tranquil visual appeal.

Provides ground cover in shady areas, reducing erosion and suppressing weeds.

Supports local pollinators and beneficial insects, contributing to garden biodiversity.

SpeciesAthyrium niponicumJapanese painted fern

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

18 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Consistently moist

Humidity

High humidity preferred

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan, China, Korea

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

NH Hostas

<1 Gal Pot1+ Gal PotPlugs

In Stock$13.00

Rare Roots

<1 Gal Pot

In Stock$17.95

Garden Goods Direct

In Stock$22.95

Sooner Plant Farm

1+ Gal Pot

In Stock$27.00

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck spores or division cuttings into well-draining soil in early spring.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Mist the fronds to maintain humidity during dry periods.
Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Rotate plants gently to avoid root disturbance during transplanting.
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, organic fertilizer for lush growth.

Pro Tip

Maintain high humidity levels and consistent moisture for vibrant foliage.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Keep soil consistently moist 🌱
Provide partial to full shade
Mulch annually to conserve moisture
Fertilize in spring with organic compost
Monitor for pests regularly

Don't

Avoid direct, harsh sunlight ❌
Do not let the soil dry out completely
Refrain from over-fertilizing
Avoid heavy, compacted soil
Don’t ignore signs of pests

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland garden borderSilver-foliaged groundcoverElegant container plant for shaded patios

Companion Plants

HostaFerns AstilbeJapanese maple Heuchera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions