Southern lady fern - Athyrium asplenioides (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Southern lady fern

Southern lady fern is a deciduous fern with graceful, arching fronds that can reach up to 1.5 meters tall. Its lacy, pale green leaves unfurl in the moist, shaded woodlands it calls home, thriving in dappled sunlight and rich, well-drained soils. Each leaf segment is delicately toothed, contributing to its feathery appearance, which adds a touch of elegance to the forest floor.

Scientific classification

Species

Southern lady fern (Athyrium asplenioides)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

30 cm to 91 cm

Plant Height

60 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Green, Red, Burgundy

Stem Color

Images of Southern lady fern

Distribution of Southern lady fern

Distribution Map

Southern lady fern is a fern species with a native distribution that extends across parts of Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. Though initially confined to these major regions, its adaptability has allowed it to spread beyond its original range, with no specific details on its introduced regions provided.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Thickets, shaded woods, swamps, streams, riverbanks, and acid bogs

Quickly Identify Southern lady fern

Lacy fronds with elliptic pinnae and oblong pinnules create a circular clump.

Stem displays yellow-green to red-brown color with distinctive chaffy scales.

Underground rhizomes enable dense ground cover formation in natural settings.

Reproductive structures (sori & indusia) located on undersides of pinnules.

Spore covers of southern lady fern open slowly, reflecting its unique nomenclature origin.

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Care Guide for Southern lady fern

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Southern lady fern thrives in high humidity akin to tropical rainforests, preferring a balance of dry and moist conditions. Weekly watering is ideal, exhibiting drought tolerance. As an evergreen fern, southern lady fern retains lush green foliage year-round, perfect for indoor growing with consistent water supply.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, southern lady fern requires balanced nutrition via diluted liquid fertilizers monthly in spring and summer, bi-monthly in fall, and none in winter. Monitor soil moisture for consistency, especially after fertilization, and always water before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn.

Pruning: Southern lady fern thrives in shade and features finely-divided fronds. Prune in spring to remove damaged fronds, enhancing growth and air circulation. Cut close to the base with sharp, sterile tools to avoid disease. Regular pruning minimizes pests and maintains aesthetics.

Propagation: Southern lady fern prefers moist, humus-rich soil in shaded woodland areas. Propagation is done by dividing established clumps in late winter or early spring. Ensure proper spacing and water thoroughly to establish roots. Consistent moisture and light shade promote healthy regrowth for southern lady fern.

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Images of Southern lady fern

Distribution of Southern lady fern

Quickly Identify Southern lady fern

Care Guide for Southern lady fern

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