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Northwest Blooms · Perennials

Athyrium niponicum var. pictum 'Regal Red'

Japanese Painted Fern

Athyrium niponicum var. pictum 'Regal Red'
Family
Athyriaceae
Height
12-18 inches tall
Width
18-24 inches wide
Flower color
Non-flowering (grown for foliage)
Foliage color
Silvery-green fronds with deep burgundy-red stems and veins
Bloom time
Not applicable
Light
Partial to full shade
Water
Moderate to high
Maintenance
Low; trim dead fronds in spring
Growing zone
USDA Zones 4-8
Wildlife
None

About this plant

Athyrium niponicum var. pictum 'Regal Red' showcases a unique blend of silver and deep red tones, making it an enchanting addition to shaded garden spaces. Its finely divided fronds are edged in silvery green, with a rich, burgundy-red midrib that intensifies through the growing season, creating a vivid contrast. Known as the Japanese painted fern, this cultivar adds a refined, textural quality to woodland gardens and shaded borders.

Originally from Asia, 'Regal Red' has been cultivated for its vivid coloring and intricate frond pattern, which stand out beautifully against darker foliage or shady ground covers. Though not primarily grown for blooms, it brings visual interest year-round with its vibrant foliage, adding depth and color to areas with less sun. This fern's graceful fronds also lend themselves well to container arrangements, where their rich hues can be admired up close.

Works well in

Borders · Shade Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Rain Gardens · Containers

Companion plants

Bleeding hearts · Solomon's seal · Lungworts · Wild ginger · Hellebores · Japanese forest grass

Design tip

Use it as a steady framework plant, repeating it along a bed to tie separate plantings together. Keep it out of hot afternoon sun and layer it with woodland companions for a full, settled look.

Where to see it

This plant can be seen in the perennial border at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.