Athyrium niponicum var. pictum Metallicum - Painted Fern

Athyrium niponicum var. pictum 'Metallicum' is commonly called the Painted Fern because of the beauty of its foliage. Its fronds, with variegated appearance, display various metallic shades ranging from blue to purple and silver on a green background, a colour enhanced by purple veins and stems. Of medium size but vigorous, this variety grows in a large spreading clump and can eventually colonise a permanently wet area if the conditions are met. This collector's plant is a gem for surroundings natural ponds or damp woodlands.

The Painted Fern 'Metallicum' belongs to the family of Athyriaceae (Dryopteridaceae). It is considered synonymous with the species Athyrium niponicum var.pictum, native to Japan, Taiwan, Korea, and northern China. Generally slow-growing in the garden, this fern reaches a height of 40 cm (16in) with a spread of 45 cm (18in). Once established, it becomes rather robust. The above-ground, deciduous vegetation forms in spring and disappears in winter.
Athyrium niponicum 'Metallicum'  forms a clump with a branching and spreading habit from a central point. The young fronds appear painted with a mix of purple and silver, with metallic hues. The mature fronds, 25 to 45 cm (10 to 18in) long, are bipinnate, pendulous, triangular, and dentate. The rachis (central vein) and secondary veins have a purple hue. The fronds are pale green, widely marked with blue, purple, and silver areas. This variety has a trailing, scaly, reddish-brown rootstock.

Plant Athyrium niponicum 'Metallicum' in humus-rich, moist to damp, neutral to slightly acidic, but well-drained soil. It is primarily a plant for dappled light and moist soil, or partial shade, which will reach its full potential in very fresh woodlands or around water features. It also thrives in rockeries with rich soil and partial shade, where it can reach impressive dimensions over time. It pairs beautifully with Corydalis, hostas, actaea, Solomon's seals, lily of the valley, brunneras, and trilliums. It adapts well to growing in large pots, in shade, with regular fertiliser, allowing you to enjoy its refined and luminous foliage up close.