Hardy, native, deciduous perennial fernDescription: Delicate, fine-textured, light green fronds which are wider near the base; brown spores on the undersides of the fronds Habit: Grows 1-3 feet high and wide; upright; spreads by creeping rhizomes Culture: Prefers partial to full shade and moist but well-drained, humus-rich woodland loam Hardiness: Cold hardy to USDA Zones 5 through 9 Origin: Eastern United States While the Lady Fern (Athyrium filix-femina) is widespread in temperate regions throughout the Northern Hemisphere, the Southern Lady Fern is found in the eastern United States from Maine south to Florida and west to Texas. Although not mentioned specifically by Jefferson in his notes and correspondence, the species is common in the woodlands at Monticello and can be found growing as a groundcover in an oval bed by the house. During the 18th century ferns often were used to pack plants and fruits for shipping.This plant will ship bare root. Arrives as a Heavy Clump.Bare root planting tips: If you can't plant immediately, store your plant in a cool location and keep the roots moist or pot in a container with a nursery potting mix from your local garden center. Before planting, let the roots soak for several hours as you prepare the site. You'll want to dig a large enough hole so the root mass can spread out and the plant is at the same soil level as when it was growing in the nursery. Once planted, water it in well and wait a month before fertilizing. Mulching will help to maintain moisture and raise soil temperatures for faster growth.
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