Northern Lady Fern

Athyrium angustum – Northern Lady Fern

Light: Partial to full shade
Soil: Moist, rich, well-drained; tolerates occasional wetness
Height: 40 – 90 cm
Spread: 45 – 75 cm
Foliage: Bright green, finely divided fronds

 Description:

Elegant and resilient, Northern Lady Fern (Athyrium angustum) is a classic native fern of forest floors, streambanks, and shaded slopes. Its soft, arching fronds add texture and movement to woodland gardens while playing a vital role in soil stabilization and understory biodiversity.

This fern thrives where others struggle — cool, damp, and dappled environments — and is a cornerstone species for shaded restoration projects, riparian plantings, and forest-edge designs.

 Ecological Benefits:

• Provides habitat and cover for small forest fauna and pollinators

• Aids in erosion control and soil moisture retention

• Contributes to forest-floor carbon cycling

• Perfect companion for wildflowers and shade-tolerant natives

Did You Know?

Lady Ferns reproduce by tiny spores released from the underside of their fronds—a delicate yet powerful way to spread and recolonize disturbed forest soils.

???? Planting to Protect. Restoring to Thrive.
???? Origin Native Plants – Guelph, Ontario
OriginNativePlants.com

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