Ferns are a wonderful complement to hostas in the garden. Their delicate,
lacy foliage and spiky shape make a nice contrast to the usually rather
moundy, muscular hosta. Ferns also thrive in the shade. They generally need
a bit of moisture to do well, but certain species do well in dry areas.
On this page are photos of just two of the 9 types of ferns I grow.
On top is the Japanese Painted Fern, one of the most colorful and delicate
of all ferns. They are small, reaching only about 8-10 inches in height.
It's scientific name is Athyrium nipponicum. It is hardy to USDA
zone 4. Immediately below is Leatherwood fern -- Dryopteris maginalis.
At the very bottom of the page is you see the Leatherwood fern as it unfurls
new fronds in the spring. It can reach two to three feet tall, and retains
some of its fronds throughout the winter. It is hardy to USDA zone 2.
