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Tatting Fern

Athyrium filix-femina 'Frizelliae'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

15 inches

Width

15 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Consistently moist soil

Humidity

Prefers high humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Athyrium filix-femina, commonly known as Lady Fern, is a deciduous fern distinguished by its delicate, feathery fronds and lush green foliage, creating an elegant, soft texture in shaded garden settings. A unique cultivar of lady fern with distinctive, rounded, bead-like pinnae arranged alternately along the stem, giving the fronds a knotted or tatted appearance.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, evergreen foliage that adds texture and shade to shaded garden areas.

Helps retain soil moisture and prevent erosion in shaded, moist gardens.

Supports local insect populations and contributes to woodland garden biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck spores into moist soil in early spring.
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth.
Mist fronds regularly to maintain humidity.
Provide partial shade for best growth.
Transplant in early spring or fall for best results.
Divide clumps every 3–4 years to rejuvenate.

Pro Tip

Maintain consistent moisture and provide filtered shade for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to retain soil moisture
Prune dead or damaged fronds

Don't

Avoid direct, harsh sunlight ❌
Don't let soil dry out completely
Avoid heavy fertilization

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland gardenMoist border with lush greenery

Companion Plants

Hosta Astilbe Trillium Ligularia Japanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tatting Fern questions

What zones can Tatting Fern grow in?

Tatting 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.

Is Tatting Fern deer resistant?

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

When does Tatting Fern bloom?

Tatting Fern typically blooms in early spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Tatting Fern need full sun?

Tatting Fern does best in part shade.