Northern lady fern (Athyrium angustum) is an elegant native fern with finely divided, arching fronds, thriving in moist, shaded woodland environments.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade
50% intensity
Thrives in dappled shade or morning sun. Protect from harsh afternoon sun.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Prefers moist, well-drained soil. Avoid waterlogging.
Moist, humus-rich, well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers cooler temperatures, ideally between 15-24°C (59-75°F). Protect from extreme heat.
Low
25% intensity
Feed sparingly in spring with diluted balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Northern lady fern thrives in consistently moist soil. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid letting the soil completely dry out, especially during warmer months.
In drier indoor environments, consider misting or placing the pot on a pebble tray with water to increase humidity.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or unsightly fronds by cutting them back to the base of the plant.
This tidies the appearance and encourages vigorous new growth for the upcoming season.
Northern lady fern is best propagated by division. In early spring, carefully divide mature rhizomes into smaller sections, ensuring each division has at least a few healthy fronds and roots.
Replant divisions immediately into moist soil.
Repot Athyrium angustum every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound, typically in early spring. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one, using a well-draining, peaty potting mix.
Ensure the rhizome is at or slightly below the soil surface.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Northern Lady Fern (Athyrium angustum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Athyriaceae |
| Genus | Athyrium |
| Species | Athyrium angustum |
Similar in genus Athyrium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
