Pearly White Japanese Painted Fern (Athyrium nipponicum ‘Pictum Pearly White’)
Brighten the shade with the creamy fronds of Pearly white Japanese painted fern (Athyrium nipponicum ‘ Pictum Pearly White’).
Its creamy appearance is due to the unique coloration of the fronds. The outer edges are light green and centers on each frond are white. Grow this beauty in filtered shade for best results. The light-colored leaves will burn in direct sun and color may fade in the heavy shade.
Pearly white Japanese painted fern grows 15 to 18 tall and wide and is hardy in zones 4 to 9. It combines nicely with hostas, coral bells, Solomon’s seal, groundcovers and other shade lovers.
Plant it in organically rich well-drained soil. Water thoroughly as needed to prevent the soil from drying. Spread a one- to two-inch layer of shredded leaves, evergreen needles or other organic mulch over the soil surface. The mulch will help to keep the soil moist and suppress weeds.
A bit more information: The term frond describes a fern leaf. It consists of a stalk that attaches to the main structure of the plant. The individual leaf structure is known as pinna and pinnae when referring to more than one.
Related

Video

Article

Article

Article
Categories
Upcoming Live Events
& Webinars
May 17, 2025
Ask the Plant Doctor Q&A
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI
May 18, 2025
Ask the Plant Doctor Q&A
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI
June 1, 2025
Growing, Harvesting & Preserving Favorite Italian Herbs for Food and Drink Demos
Festa Italiana-Cucina Showcase
Milwaukee, WI
June 4, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Attracting Hummingbirds
Register here
June 8, 2025
Selecting the Right Hydrangea
for Your Landscape
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI
June 14, 2025
Houseplants 101
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI
June 20, 2025 (event 6/20-6/22)
Pollinator Celebration
Vino in the Valley
Maiden Rock, WI
Register here
WATCH ON-DEMAND WEBINARS
Learn More