Lady in Red Lady Fern

Lady in Red is a deciduous lady fern selected for its lacy green fronds and contrasting burgundy-red stalks. The upright, leafy clump adds color and texture to shaded beds while keeping the familiar finely divided look of lady fern. ## Landscape use Use it in woodland gardens, shaded borders, or a container with consistent moisture. Its red stipes read most clearly against the light green fronds and nearby silver or broad-leaved foliage. Proven Winners lists the selection as Athyrium felix-forma, while Walters Gardens uses A. filix-femina; the botanical placement varies among horticultural sources. ## Growing conditions Grow in partial to full shade in moist, well-drained soil. Proven Winners lists mature height of 30–36 inches, spread of about 24 inches, and USDA zones 3–8. Keep soil from drying during establishment and hot weather; avoid waterlogged conditions. The plant is grown primarily for foliage, and rabbit resistance is reported. ## Maintenance Leave old fronds over winter to protect the crown and emerging shoots, then remove them when new fronds reach roughly 6 inches in spring. Divide in spring if the clump needs renewal. See [Proven Winners](https://www.provenwinners.com/plants/athyrium/lady-red-lady-fern-athyrium-felix-forma) and [Walters Gardens](https://www.waltersgardens.com/variety.php?ID=ATHLR) for cultivar and care details.