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Athyrium 'Ghost' (Ghost fern)

Athyrium 'Ghost' Photo/Illustration: Courtesy of Park Seed



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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Athyrium 'Ghost' ah-THEER-ee-um Common Name: Ghost fern Genus: Athyrium

‘Ghost’ is a fiendish fern with an upright habit and showy silvery fronds. Many speculate that the name of this plant is due to the fact that each new frond emerges from the “underworld” with a shimmering whitish hue, then slowly darkens to a silvery green with burgundy accents. It spreads slowly by shallow rhizomes, making a fine ground cover.


 Noteworthy characteristics: This is a strong grower. Among the colored ferns, this one is fairly subtle and combines well with most other plants.
 Care: Provide part to full shade and moist, but well-drained, humusy soil. 'Ghost' grows best in a sheltered location and its color is best in light shade.
 Propagation: Sow spores when ripe. Divide in spring.
 Problems: Rust.
Height 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Growth Habit Clumps
Growth Pace Moderate Grower
Light Part Shade to Full Shade
Moisture Medium Moisture
Maintenance Low
Tolerance Deer Tolerant
Characteristics Showy Foliage
Foliage Color Colorful/Burgundy Foliage
Uses Beds and Borders
Style Shade, Woodland Garden
Seasonal Interest Spring Interest, Summer Interest, Fall Interest
Type Fern

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