Athyrium otophorum Okanum

Athyrium otophorum ‘Okanum’ is a deciduous fern prized for its luminous, pale yellow-green fronds highlighted by contrasting burgundy-purple midribs, forming neat, elegant clumps that brighten shaded areas. It thrives in partial to full shade in consistently moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil that is neutral to slightly acidic; protect from hot, direct sun and do not allow the soil to dry out. Ideal for Irish gardens in woodland-style plantings, shaded borders, and underplanting of trees and shrubs; it also suits cool, shaded containers kept evenly moist. Expect a steady, reliable growth to about 30–45cm tall and 30–60cm across over time.

To help give a clear sense of scale, the stone wall shown in our photos measures approximately 265cm in height. We also use familiar garden tools as visual references: a digging fork (110cm tall) and a hand fork (30cm tall). These are included purely as size guides to help you better judge proportions when viewing the images.

Position: Partial to full shade

Rate of Growth: Average

Soil: Moist, humus-rich, well-drained; neutral to slightly acidic

Hardiness: Fully hardy

Plant at a Glance