Athyrium Burgundy Lace

Description

Athyrium ‘Burgundy Lace’ – Japanese painted fern

Botanical name: Athyrium niponicum ‘Burgundy Lace’
Common names: Japanese painted fern
Family: Athyriaceae
Plant type: Deciduous fern
Habit: Clump-forming
Pot size: 3 litre pot
Eventual size: Approx. 30–45cm tall × 30–45cm spread
Foliage: Finely divided fronds in silvery-grey overlaid with burgundy and purple tones; deciduous
Flowers: None — ferns reproduce by spores, not flowers
Scent: Not scented
Aspect / light: Partial to full shade
Soil: Moist but well-drained, humus-rich; neutral to acid
Hardiness: RHS H7 (very hardy, below −20°C); USDA zones 4–8
Exposure: Sheltered
Native range: Species native to eastern Asia
Toxicity / pet & child safety: Generally considered non-toxic to people and pets

Athyrium ‘Burgundy Lace’ is a Japanese painted fern with finely divided fronds in silvery-grey overlaid with burgundy and purple tones. Deciduous and elegant, it is beautiful in moist, shaded borders and woodland gardens.

GardenAdvice notes

A graceful deciduous fern for shade, this athyrium is grown for its beautifully coloured, finely divided fronds, which bring delicate texture and colour to a moist, shady border or woodland planting. Its silvery fronds are richly overlaid with burgundy and purple, deepest on the young growth. It thrives in the cool, humus-rich, moist conditions of a shaded spot.

Growing & planting

Plant in spring or autumn in moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil in partial to full shade, with shelter from cold, drying winds. It is ideal for shady and woodland borders, north-facing beds and cool corners. Work in leaf mould or compost, and space about 40cm apart.

Care & maintenance

Low-maintenance. Keep the soil reliably moist, especially while establishing, and mulch with leaf mould in autumn. Cut back the old fronds in late autumn or early spring, as they die down for winter. No feeding is usually needed beyond an annual mulch.

Propagation

• Division: Lift and divide congested clumps in spring.
• Spores: Can be raised from spores, though division is far quicker and easier.

Pests & diseases

Generally trouble-free. Slugs and snails can graze the soft young fronds as they unfurl in spring, and the fronds scorch in dry or exposed positions. Moist soil and shelter keep it looking its best.

Uses in the garden

Ideal for shady and woodland borders, north-facing beds, and among hostas, hellebores and other shade plants, where the coloured fronds add fine texture and contrast.

Wildlife value

The fronds provide cover and shelter for small invertebrates through the growing season.

Toxicity & safety

Ferns are generally regarded as non-toxic to people and pets.

GardenAdvice tip

The metallic silver-and-burgundy fronds of ‘Burgundy Lace’ really glow in a shady spot, especially against dark soil or green-leaved neighbours, so give it a position where the light can catch it. Keep it moist and mulched, and it will colour up best where it gets a little gentle, indirect light rather than the deepest, driest shade.

Our plants are guaranteed for 24 months for more details Click Here