Lady in Red Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata 'Lady in Red'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Fern
Height
24 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
6, 7, 8
Water
moderate
Humidity
high
Lifespan
perennial
Native To
Temperate Northern Hemisphere
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
A deciduous fern known for its distinctive reddish-purple to burgundy stems (stipes) and finely-textured, bright green fronds. This plant is a cultivar of Athyrium filix-femina, not Nephrolepis exaltata. The 'Lady in Red' cultivar is valued for its striking red stems that contrast beautifully with the lush green fronds.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck spores or divisions into moist, well-draining soil in early spring.
- Mist fronds regularly to maintain humidity, especially during dry periods.
- Place in bright, indirect light for optimal growth.
- Water consistently to keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilize monthly with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
- Transplant when roots are crowded or plant out in a shaded garden bed.
Pro Tip
Maintain high humidity around the plant by grouping plants or using a humidifier for lush foliage.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Keep soil consistently moist 🌱
- Provide bright, indirect light
- Mist regularly to increase humidity
- Fertilize monthly during active growth
- Use well-draining soil
Don't
- Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch fronds ❌
- Do not let soil dry out completely
- Avoid cold drafts or temperatures below 55°F (13°C)
- Refrain from over-fertilizing to prevent root burn
- Do not allow water to stagnate around roots
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
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Lady in Red Fern questions
What zones can Lady in Red Fern grow in?
Lady in Red Fern is hardy in USDA Zones 6–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Lady in Red Fern deer resistant?
Yes — Lady in Red Fern is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
Does Lady in Red Fern need full sun?
Lady in Red Fern does best in part shade.
More Nephrolepis to compare
Brilliance Autumn Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata 'Brilliance Autumn'
Godzilla Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata 'Godzilla'
Boston Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata
Kimberly Queen Fern
Nephrolepis obliterata 'Kimberly Queen'
Golden Boston Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata 'Jurassic Gold'
Macho Fern
Nephrolepis biserrata 'Macho'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Lady in Red 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.
