This fern produces a stunning carpet of finery of brilliant soft green fronds in the early spring which mature to a bluish-green by fall and become tinged with bronze during the winter as they slowly degrade. The typical maidenhair aspect of downward curved pinnules exposes the rachis in a skeletal dark tracery above the symmetry of inverted triangles. It is known as the evergreen maidenhair since the frost bronzed fronds persist throughout the winter gradually breaking down to make way for the new reddish-tinged croziers in early spring. Failing to give this fern an early spring trim will result in a mash of old fronds crowding the fresh new ones and you'll miss the exquisite delight of sunshine illuminating those multitudinous fiddle heads. Give this fern a humus-rich root run taking care to not bury the rhizome too deeply. This is the only maidenhair I grow that thrives on being divided and is best propagated by pulling the rhizomes into small bits and planting in a loose humus rich soil.

Frond Condition:  Semi-evergreen; colonizing
Mature Height:  6-12"
Origin: Himalayan Mts. to China
Cultural Requirements:  Some Shade, Full Shade, Partly Shaded, Evenly Moist, Slightly Moist
USDA Zones:  4,5,6,7,8
Notes: Does not like areas with hot humid summers (SE U.S.), provide good drainage for best results