Dwarf Lady Fern

‘Minutissimum’ is a dwarf selection of common lady fern, forming a small clump of soft, finely divided green fronds. Its compact scale makes it useful where the airy texture of a lady fern is wanted at the front of a shaded planting or in a container. ## Landscape use Grow it in a woodland border, rock garden, or shaded container, allowing room for the clump to widen. Plant Delights Nursery lists this selection at about 12 inches tall and 2 feet wide, while RHS gives a broader 0.1–0.5 m mature-size range. These estimates vary; allow room for the clump to widen. ## Growing conditions Provide partial to full shade and rich, moist, well-drained soil. The species can tolerate somewhat drier soil than many ferns once established, but the plant performs best with even moisture and shelter from drying wind. RHS lists moist but well-drained conditions and acid to neutral soil for ‘Minutissimum’. ## Maintenance Water regularly while the fern establishes and during prolonged dry weather. Remove damaged fronds as needed, and divide established clumps in spring if they become crowded. See the [RHS cultivar profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/94344/athyrium-filix-femina-minutissimum/details) and the [Plant Delights Nursery archive](https://www.plantdelights.com/products/athyrium-filixfemina-minutissimum).