Athyrium filix-femina var. angustum 'Lady in Red'

Athyrium filix-femina var. angustum 'Lady in Red' is a selected cultivar of the Northern Lady Fern, an exceptionally hardy fern with a wide geographical range from Greenland down through Canada to the northeastern states of the US. It develops a pinkish to dark red colouration on the stipes and rachises that contrast with the lush lime-green fronds which are produced vigourously throughout the growing season. It was originally discovered by the writer and freelance nature photographer, John A. Lynch and introduced to horticulture through the Native Plant Trust when it was known as the New England Wildflower Society.

A delicate-looking fern it is actually a tough customer, its roots withstanding severe winter freezes and growing back strongly after its deciduous dormancy once the weather warms up again in spring. Likewise, it tolerates drying out in hot weather and puts on new growth once more favourable moister conditions return.

Athyrium filix-femina var. angustum 'Lady in Red' is afflicted with a large number of synonyms and you will often see it listed under another name variation.