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Description
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum Ursula S Red is a stunning variety of the Japanese painted fern. It is a deciduous perennial that grows in clumps and has a mature height of 12-18 inches and a spread of 18-24 inches. The most distinctive feature of this fern is its unique foliage. The fronds are a striking silver color with deep red stems that contrast beautifully against the greenery in a garden. This fern is a perfect choice for adding a touch of color and texture to shady spots in gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Pteridales |
| Family | Athyriaceae |
| Genus | Athyrium |
Appearance
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum Ursula S Red has a unique and eye-catching appearance that sets it apart from other ferns. The fronds are a silvery-gray color with deep red stems that contrast beautifully with the greenery in a garden. The leaves are bipinnate, meaning they are divided into two sections, with each section further divided into smaller leaflets. These leaflets are lance-shaped and have a serrated edge. The overall shape of the plant is a vase-like clump that grows up to 12-18 inches in height and 18-24 inches in width.
Care Guide
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum Ursula S Red is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some guidelines for keeping it healthy and thriving:Water: Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water regularly during dry spells, and make sure the plant is getting enough water during the hot summer months. Be careful not to let the soil dry out completely.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Use a slow-release fertilizer or liquid fertilizer, following the instructions on the package.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, humus-rich soil. If planting in a container, make sure it has good drainage.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade, as direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum Ursula S Red is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum Ursula S Red is generally a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases such as slugs, snails, and fungal diseases. To prevent these problems, keep the plant healthy by providing good growing conditions and maintain good hygiene practices such as avoiding overhead watering and removing dead or diseased foliage.
Habitat
Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum Ursula S Red is native to Japan, Korea, and China. It grows in a variety of habitats, including woodland areas, rocky slopes, and riverbanks. In gardens, it is commonly used in shaded borders or woodland gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum Ursula S Red a good plant for container gardening?
A: Yes, this fern is a great choice for container gardening as long as the container has good drainage.Q: Can Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum Ursula S Red tolerate full sun?
A: No, this fern prefers partial to full shade and can be susceptible to leaf scorch in direct sunlight.Q: How often should I fertilize Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum Ursula S Red?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q: How do I propagate Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum Ursula S Red?
A: The plant can be propagated by division in spring or fall.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Athyrium Niponicum Var. Pictum Ursula S Red:- Athyrium niponicum ‘Metallicum’- Athyrium filix-femina- Athyrium niponicum ‘Pictum’- Athyrium otophorum- Athyrium ‘Ghost’- Athyrium niponicum ‘Burgundy Lace’
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Athyrium niponicum var. pictum ‘Ursula’s Red’. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=244065- Gardening Know How. (2021). Japanese Painted Fern Care: How To Grow Athyrium Niponicum ‘Pictum’. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/japanese-painted-fern/japanese-painted-fern-care.htm
