Overview
Athyrium filix-femina (L.) Roth var. rubellum Gilbert, commonly known as Lady fern ‘Lady in Red,’ is a strikingly beautiful fern that belongs to the Athyriaceae family. It is a deciduous, clump-forming plant that is native to Asia and North America. The fern can grow up to 3 feet tall and wide, making it an excellent option for adding texture and height to shade gardens.Description
The fronds of Lady fern ‘Lady in Red’ are delicate, feathery, and lance-shaped, with a bright green color that gradually fades to a gorgeous red color on the stems as the plant matures. The young fronds emerge in spring with a coppery-red tint that provides excellent contrast against darker foliage in the garden. The plant does not produce flowers or seeds and instead reproduces through spores.Uses
Lady fern ‘Lady in Red’ is an excellent plant for adding color and texture to shade gardens or woodland areas. The delicate foliage and bright red stems make it an excellent option for mixing with other shade-loving perennials, shrubs, or evergreens. The plant can also be used as a groundcover or grown in a large container for a stunning display on a patio or balcony.Care
Lady fern ‘Lady in Red’ prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant thrives in part-shade to full-shade locations and requires consistently moist soil to grow its best. Regular watering and fertilization can help the plant establish and grow. It is also essential to keep the plant free from pests, such as mites and scale insects, which can damage the fronds and cause discoloration. During winter, it is essential to provide adequate mulch to protect the plant from extreme freezes.Light Requirements
Athyrium filix-femina var. rubellum Gilbert thrives in partially shaded areas, making it ideal for underplanting in woodland gardens. It can also tolerate full sun in cooler regions but may require more shade in warmer areas. In direct sunlight, the fronds will become scorched and damaged.
Temperature Requirements
This fern prefers cool and moist environments with temperatures ranging from 50-75°F (10-24°C). It can, however, tolerate temperatures as low as 35°F (2°C) and as high as 90°F (32°C) for short periods. In areas with extreme heat, it benefits from extra shade and regular watering.
Soil Requirements
Athyrium filix-femina var. rubellum Gilbert requires well-draining, moist soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 to 7.0. The addition of compost or leaf mold to the soil can help retain moisture and improve soil structure. It should be fertilized once a year with a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods:
Athyrium filix-femina (L.) Roth var. rubellum Gilbert is a hardy fern that thrives in moist, partially shaded areas. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, which can be achieved by adding compost or other organic materials. The plant can be grown from spores or division of mature plants.
Watering Needs:
The Athyrium filix-femina (L.) Roth var. rubellum Gilbert fern requires consistent moisture, but not waterlogged soil. It is essential to keep the soil consistently damp as this plant cannot tolerate drought, but fungal diseases can occur if the soil becomes too wet. During dry spells, it is important to supplement rainfall by watering regularly.
Fertilization:
Athyrium filix-femina (L.) Roth var. rubellum Gilbert fern does not require heavy fertilization like other plants. Fertilizer can be applied lightly in the spring and early summer when the plant is actively growing. It is important to use a balanced fertilizer, or one that is higher in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Pruning:
Athyrium filix-femina (L.) Roth var. rubellum Gilbert fern does not require pruning to maintain its natural form. However, old fronds can be removed in the spring to improve the overall appearance of the plant. Pruning can also be done to control the size of the plant.
Propagation of Athyrium filix-femina var. rubellum Gilbert
Athyrium filix-femina var. rubellum Gilbert, commonly known as the lady fern or the red-stemmed lady fern, is a delicate, deciduous fern species that can add a lot of elegance to any garden. Growing up to 3 feet tall and wide, this fern species prefers partly-shaded locations with moist, well-drained soil. Propagating Athyrium filix-femina var. rubellum Gilbert can be achieved through several methods, including spores and division.
Propagation by Spores
The most common propagation method for ferns is through spores, which are reproductive units that grow on the underside of mature fronds. To propagate Athyrium filix-femina var. rubellum Gilbert by spores, start by selecting a healthy, mature frond with developed spores. Next, remove the frond carefully and place it in a paper bag to collect the spores. Allow the spores to dry out in the bag for a few days before sowing them in a seed tray filled with a mixture of peat moss, sand, and perlite. Cover the tray with plastic wrap and place it in a warm, bright location out of direct sunlight. Mist the tray occasionally to keep the soil moist and wait until the spores germinate into small ferns. Once the young ferns have developed enough, you can transplant them into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Propagation by Division
Another way to propagate Athyrium filix-femina var. rubellum Gilbert is through division, which involves separating an established plant into smaller sections and replanting them. This method is best done in early spring before new growth appears. To divide the plant, carefully dig up the entire clump and separate the rhizomes using a sharp knife or garden shears. Make sure each section has a healthy portion of roots and leaves. Replant the divided sections in a well-draining soil mix, keeping the soil moist until the new roots have formed. Division is an excellent way to create new plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant.
Disease Management
Athyrium filix-femina var. rubellum Gilbert is a hardy plant that is generally resistant to most diseases. However, there are a few fungal diseases that can affect the plant. These include:
- Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that causes orange or yellow spots on the leaves. To manage rust, remove any infected leaves immediately and apply a fungicide.
- Leaf blight: Leaf blight is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves. It can be managed by removing infected leaves and ensuring good air circulation around the plant.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery Mildew is a fungal disease that coats the leaves with a white powdery substance. It can be managed by removing infected leaves and ensuring good air circulation.
To prevent fungal diseases, avoid overcrowding plants, water at the base of the plant, and remove any dead or infected leaves immediately.
Pest Management
Athyrium filix-femina var. rubellum Gilbert is generally not attacked by pests. However, when stressed or weakened, it can attract a few common pests. These include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can be managed by spraying the plant with water or insecticidal soap. Encouraging natural predators like ladybugs may also help control aphids.
- Slugs and Snails: These creatures can feed on the leaves and damage the plant. They can be managed by using slug bait or setting up copper barriers around the plant.
- Spider Mites: Spider Mites are tiny pests that feed on the leaves and cause yellow or brown spots. They can be managed by spraying the plant with water or insecticidal soap.
To prevent pest problems, keep the plant healthy by providing good growing conditions, avoiding over-fertilizing, and removing any dead or damaged leaves immediately.
