Also known as Alice · Common Ladyfern · Northern Lady Fern
Lady Fern (Athyrium filix-femina) is an elegant deciduous fern with delicate, feathery fronds, thriving in moist, shaded environments. It adds a graceful texture to woodl
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade to Full Shade
25% intensity
Prefers dappled shade or areas with filtered light. Protect from direct afternoon sun.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Rich, moist, well-drained soil
50% intensity
Cool to Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers cooler temperatures, generally between 15-24°C (59-75°F). Protect from extreme heat.
Light Feeding
25% intensity
Feed sparingly in spring with a balanced fertilizer or compost.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Lady Ferns thrive in consistently moist soil. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, ensuring the soil does not completely dry out. Avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Aim for an even moisture level, mimicking their natural woodland habitat.
Prune dead or damaged fronds at any time of year to maintain a tidy appearance. In late winter or early spring, before new growth emerges, cut back all old fronds to the ground.
This tidies the plant and allows new fronds to unfurl unobstructed.
Lady Ferns can be propagated by division or spores. Division is best done in early spring as new growth appears. Carefully separate the rhizome into sections, ensuring each piece has healthy roots and at least one bud.
Spore propagation is more complex and time-consuming.
Repot Lady Ferns when they become root-bound, typically every 2-3 years. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining, peaty compost.
Repotting is best done in early spring before active growth begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Lady Fern (Athyrium filix-femina)
Where Lady Fern (Athyrium filix-femina) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Athyriaceae |
| Genus | Athyrium |
| Species | Athyrium filix-femina |
Similar in genus Athyrium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
