| |
Athyrium felix-femina Lady fern Deciduous fern (1 Page of 5) The Athyrium felix-femina plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Polypodiaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Lady fern. Some home gardeners know the variety as Asplenium felix-femina Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Athyrium felix-femina Common Name: Lady fern Family: Polypodiaceae Author: (L.)Roth. Known Hazards: The fresh shoots contain thiaminase, an enzyme that robs the body of its vitamin B complex. In small quantities this enzyme will do no harm to people eating an adequate diet that is rich in vitamin B, though large quantities can cause severe health problems. The enzyme is destroyed by heat or thorough drying, so cooking the plant will remove the thiaminase[172].
Although we have found no reports for this species, a number of ferns also contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable[200]. Mature Height: 0.6 Mature Width: 0.5 Habitat: Moist sheltered woods, hedgebanks and ravines[4], usually on acidic soils but also found in drier and more open habitats[187].
Cultivation Notes: An easily grown plant[4], it is calcifuge and prefers an acid soil with a pH from 4.5 to 6.5, but it tolerates alkaline soils if plenty of leaf mould is added[200]. Grows well in heavy clay soils. Prefers a moist sheltered site with moderately high atmospheric humidity[200].
A very ornamental [1] and polymorphic species, there are many named varieties selected for their ornamental value[187].
Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer[233].
For further Athyrium felix-femina gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

| |