Athyrium nipponicum Painted fern (Polypodiaceae)

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Athyrium nipponicum
Painted fern
(1 Page of 5)

The Athyrium nipponicum plant species is found in E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea. It is a member of the Polypodiaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Painted fern.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Athyrium nipponicum
Common Name:  Painted fern
Family:  Polypodiaceae
Author:  (Mett.)Hance.

Known Hazards:  Although we have found no reports of toxicity for this species, a number of ferns contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable[200]. Many ferns also 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].

Mature Height:  0.3   Mature Width:  0.3

Habitat:  Shaded places in lowland all over Japan[58].

Propagation Notes: Spores - surface sow in a pot of sterile compost in a shady part of the greenhouse and keep moist, this is most easily done by putting the pot in a plastic bag. Pot up small clumps of the plants when they are large enough to handle and keep them moist until they are established. Plant out in late spring of the following year. Division in spring as plants come into growth. Larger divisions can be planted straight into their permanent positions whilst smaller clumps are best potted up and kept in a cold frame until they are growing away well.

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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'.
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