Lady Fern A native Irish fern, Athyrium filix-femina is a large, deciduous, shuttlecock fern with an elegant, upright habit and pale green, arching leaves. Similar to the male fern, but more delicate in appearance – a particularly graceful fern. Needs a moist, though not waterlogged soil, and will thrive near water. An exceptionally hardy fern, the lady fern’s fronds die down with the first frosts; leave the foliage on to protect the crown in exceptionally cold areas. Holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Site: ShelteredSoils: Moist, humus-rich, acid to neutral soilsPosition: Tolerates some sun and deep shadeSeason of interest: Spring, summer, autumnHardiness: Very hardyHeight to 2’6” (75cm) Spread to 2’ (60cm)