Athyrium niponicum Crested Surf - Painted Fern

Athyrium niponicum 'Crested Surf' is a curious and quite seductive variety of lady fern. It stands out with a double branch at the end of its fronds which are finished with an unusual frizzy at the top. Furthermore, its foliage displays changing colours. Of medium size, this deciduous fern develops into a large, loosely spreading tuft, and over time, it can colonise a permanently wet area if the conditions are right. This collector's plant perfect for surrounding natural ponds or damp woodlands.

The 'Crested Surf' Lady Fern belongs to the Athyriaceae (or Dryopteridaceae family) depending on botanical classifications. It is a cultivar that closely resembles the appearance of the wild species Athyrium niponicum var.pictum, native to Japan, Taiwan, Korea, and northern China. Generally, it grows rather slowly in order to establish itself in the garden, this fern will reach a height of 40-45 cm (16-18in) with a spread of 50 cm (20in). Once established, it becomes quite robust.
Athyrium niponicum 'Crested Surf' forms a tuft with a branching and spreading habit from a central point. The young fronds appear painted with a mixture of dark red and silver, with metallic reflections. The mature fronds, measuring 25 to 40 cm (10 to 16in) in length, are doubly brached, trailing, triangular, and toothed. The rachis, or central vein, as well as the stem, have a purple hue. This plant has a trailing, scaly, reddish-brown root stump. Its aerial vegetation, deciduous, disappears in winter and regrows in spring.

Plant Athyrium niponicum 'Crested Surf' in humus-rich soil that is preferably moist, neutral to slightly acidic, and well-drained. It is primarily a plant for filtered light or partial shade, where it will reach its full potential in cool woodlands. It also thrives in rockeries with rich soil and partial shade, where it can reach impressive dimensions over time. It pairs beautifully with Corydalis, hostas, Actaeas, Solomon's seals, lily of the valley, brunneras, and trilliums. It adapts well to cultivation in large pots, in shade, with a regular application of fertiliser.