Japanese Painted Fern
Athyrium niponicum 'Metallicum'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Fern
Height
18 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moist
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
East Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Athyrium niponicum var. pictum, the Japanese painted fern, is a deciduous fern with a low-growing, spreading habit. Its fronds are a unique mix of silvery-gray, green, and burgundy. This fern is prized for its colorful, variegated fronds that brighten up shady areas of the garden. The cultivar name 'Metallicum' refers to the metallic silver sheen on the foliage.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Select a shaded spot with well-draining, moist soil for planting.
- Tuck young rhizomes into the soil, keeping the crown just above the surface.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage root growth.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Water consistently, especially during dry spells, to keep soil moist.
- Divide clumps in early spring or fall to propagate new plants.
Pro Tip
Maintain consistent moisture and avoid direct sunlight for vibrant foliage.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Keep soil consistently moist 🌱
- Provide shade during hot afternoons
- Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly
Don't
- Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves ❌
- Do not let soil dry out completely
- Avoid heavy, waterlogged soil
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
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Japanese Painted Fern questions
What zones can Japanese Painted Fern grow in?
Japanese Painted Fern is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Japanese Painted Fern deer resistant?
Yes — Japanese Painted Fern is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
Does Japanese Painted Fern need full sun?
Japanese Painted Fern does best in part shade.
More Athyrium to compare
Japanese Painted Fern
Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum'
Ghost Fern
Athyrium niponicum 'Ghost'
Lady Fern
Athyrium filix-femina
Lady in Red Fern
Athyrium filix-femina 'Lady in Red'
Eared Lady Fern
Athyrium otophorum 'Okanum'
Tatting Fern
Athyrium filix-femina 'Frizelliae'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Grow Japanese Painted Fern with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
