Perennial Ferns (Various Species)

Sun Needs:

• Full shade to part shade (Avoid direct afternoon sun)

Bloom Time:

• Non-flowering (Reproduce via spores on the underside of fronds)

Size:

Height: 12 inches to 3 feet, depending on species
Width: 12 inches to 3 feet, with slow, clumping or spreading growth

Attributes:

• legant, finely textured foliage
• Deer and rabbit resistant
• Thrives in shade and damp conditions
• Low maintenance once established
• Great for erosion control on slopes
• Adds cool, green visual relief in shady spaces
• Works well in naturalistic, woodland, or Japanese gardens

Companion:

• Lady Fern (Athyrium filix-femina) – graceful, lacy fronds
• Japanese Painted Fern (Athyrium niponicum) – silver and purple tones
• Ostrich Fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris) – tall, vase-shaped habit
• Christmas Fern (Polystichum acrostichoides) – evergreen fronds for winter interest
• Cinnamon Fern (Osmundastrum cinnamomeum) – dramatic fertile fronds in spring

Good Companion Plants:

• Hosta – bold leaves provide contrast
• Astilbe – adds color and similar moisture needs
• Brunnera – heart-shaped leaves and tiny spring flowers
• Pulmonaria (Lungwort) – spotted foliage and early blooms
• Toad Lily – shade-loving with unique flowers
• Heuchera (Coral Bells) – colorful foliage in part-shade gardens
• Bleeding Heart – soft foliage and romantic blooms