Ghost Japanese Painted Fern

The Ghost Japanese Painted Fern is an easy-care plant that adds color and texture to a low-light area of a landscape. Also known as Athyrium niponicum, this colorful plant boasts silvery fronds that grow along purplish midribs. The foliage has an arching habit, and the tight form of this fern creates a full and lush look.

The Ghost Japanese Painted Fern is a slow grower, but the lovely foliage is worth the wait. Plant this stunner underneath trees or in a shady area. This fern is an excellent companion plant for hostas and enjoys similar conditions. Grow the Ghost Japanese Painted Fern as a perennial in zones 4 through 8.

Ghost Japanese Painted Fern Care

This fern is easy to grow if its two primary needs are addressed. The Ghost Japanese Painted Fern needs acidic soil and low light to thrive. Plant it in full to partial shade, although expect more intense variegation when grown in partial shade. Keep the soil evenly moist and water when the top layer is dry. Drainage is vital because this fern does not tolerate wet feet. Soil with high organic content is enough to support the growth of Ghost Japanese Painted Fern. Top-dressing the soil with organic compost or applying a balanced fertilizer in the spring can be beneficial. 

Prune the plant to remove dead growth in the spring and shape the fern as necessary. The fern will outgrow an area with time, so divide large plants in the spring.

Ghost Japanese Painted Fern Spacing

The Ghost Japanese Painted Fern has a mounded, upright growth habit. The lush fronds reach 24 to 30 inches tall and wide. Space plants 18-24 inches apart when creating a mass planting.

Ghost Japanese Painted Fern Information