Image 1 of 1

Public Plant Profile

Ghost Fern

Athyrium x 'Ghost' (Fern)

Category: Fern • Ghost Fern

Discover the Ghost Fern, a stunning addition to shade gardens with its unique silvery fronds.

Request Consultation Browse All Plants

Mature Height: 2-3 feet

Mature Width: 1-2 feet

Light: Shade

Zone: Zones 4-8

Maintenance: Low

Growth Rate: Moderate

Season of Interest: Multi-season

Foliage: Deciduous

Community Photos

Upload some of your best photos for this plant by clicking below.

Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

Ghost Fern is a striking perennial with silvery-green fronds that add a unique touch to shaded gardens. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and is known for its graceful, arching foliage.

Ideal Conditions

Prefers partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soil. Thrives in cool, humid environments.

Soil Preferences

Requires rich, organic soil with good drainage. Prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH.

Sun Needs

Shade

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

shade gardenborderspecimen

Special Features

Unique silvery frondsattractive foliage

Wildlife Value

Attracts various pollinators and provides habitat.

Resistance / Tolerance

Moderate drought tolerance once established.

Notes from Our Designer

Great for adding texture to shady areas. Works well in woodland gardens.

Related Plants

See How Similar Plants Are Used in Real Landscapes

Explore related plants, compare shape, texture, and overall planting style, and get a better feel for what may fit your own outdoor space.

Design Ideas Using This Plant

Use this page to get a feel for where Ghost Fern may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

What Clients Say

★★★★★

“I have had great experiences with Bold Outdoors. Josh designed our home's landscaping and has been a valued partner for the past 7 years as we have added to and maintained our home's landscaping. I would highly…”

Bill C.

★★★★★

“Josh of Bold Outdoors was a very professional, hard working landscape service provider. He worked with me very well blending his ideas with that I had already done in my landscape. He worked with me instead of telling…”

Ann R.

Helpful Next Steps

Browse All Plants See Design Services Request a Consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ghost Fern a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

Ready to plan your landscape?

Browse more plants or reach out and we will help you choose the right combination for your space.

Request a Consultation Browse All Plants