Athyrium niponicum ‘Regal Red’ – Japanese Painted Fern is a stunning shade-loving fern that features deep burgundy-red tones accented by silver-gray fronds. This deciduous perennial thrives in moist, shaded areas, bringing unique color and texture to woodland gardens, shaded borders, and container plantings. Its low-maintenance nature and deer resistance make it an excellent choice for gardeners looking to add bold foliage contrast without extra effort. Thriving in partial to full shade, Regal Red prefers rich, well-drained soil and pairs beautifully with hostas, astilbes, and other shade perennials.

Why Choose Athyrium niponicum ‘Regal Red’ – Japanese Painted Fern?

• Unique Foliage Color: Striking burgundy-red fronds with silver accents add depth to shaded gardens.
• Shade-Loving & Deer-Resistant: Thrives in partial to full shade and remains unbothered by deer and rabbits.
• Low-Maintenance & Moisture-Loving: Ideal for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and containers.

Cultivating Tips:

• Best grown in partial to full shade for optimal foliage coloration.
• Prefers moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter.
• Cut back old fronds in early spring to encourage fresh, vibrant growth.

Design Ideas for Your Garden:

Athyrium niponicum ‘Regal Red’ is perfect for woodland gardens, shaded pathways, and mixed perennial beds. Its bold red tones contrast beautifully with ferns, hostas, and heucheras, creating an elegant layered effect. Use it in containers or rock gardens for added visual interest in shaded areas.

Ecological Benefits:

While Athyrium niponicum ‘Regal Red’ is not a native species, its dense foliage provides habitat and shelter for beneficial insects. As a shade-loving ground cover, it helps reduce soil erosion and retain moisture in shaded garden spaces.

Since Athyrium niponicum ‘Regal Red’ is not a native species, consider these native alternatives available at Bumbee’s:

• Davallia tyermanii – White Rabbit Foot Fern – A unique, shade-loving fern with soft, finely divided fronds, perfect for woodland gardens and containers.
• Thelypteris palustris – Marsh Fern – A moisture-loving native fern that thrives in shaded, wetland environments, providing a lush, naturalized look.
• Carex appalachica – Appalachian Sedge – A fine-textured, shade-tolerant native grass that forms soft, flowing tufts, ideal for woodland gardens.