Athyrium

     'Ghost'

Common Name:
Hybrid fern - cross between A. niponicum 'Pictum' and A. filix-femina (Lady fern)
Bloom color:
Frosted apple green fronds
Height:
24-36"
Bloom:
 
Hardiness:
Zone 3-8
Light:
Partial shade, full shade
Soil:
Well drained, Moist, compost rich

Why you need this plant:     This variety can withstand drier soil than many other ferns.  Some sunlight is necessary to draw out the coloring.  Protect the crowns and tender shoots in spring by leaving old fronds over the winter.  Remove when new fronds reach 6" tall.   Frosted apple-green fronds emit a ghostly white light in the shade.  Dark purple stems hold fronds upright.

 
Planting Info:           Plant in well-drained, compost-rich soil where moisture and humidity abound.  'Pictum' grows best in part to full shade.  The best frond color results in light shade.  The colors are more intense in the spring, in cooler temperatures or in cooler climates.  Add 2-3 inches of compost or peat moss to the beds each spring or fall.  Goes dormant in the fall.  Divide mature clumps in early spring (3-4 divisions).  Fertilize at 1/2 the rate of other perennials with an organic or time-release fertilizer.