Purple Fern Care: How to Grow for Vibrant Color

The allure of purple-leafed plants adds a unique dimension to indoor and outdoor gardens, and ferns with these tones are particularly captivating. Their textured fronds and rich colors create visual interest that stands apart from the typical sea of green. These plants bring a sense of elegance and depth, transforming a simple collection of houseplants into a more dynamic display.

Popular Purple Fern Varieties

The term “purple fern” is a common name that often refers to a few specific types of ferns known for their colorful foliage. The most prominent is the Japanese Painted Fern (Athyrium niponicum var. pictum). This popular garden and container plant features gracefully arching fronds that are a complex blend of silvery-gray, green, and a deep burgundy or purple that runs along the midrib. Its coloration can vary significantly, with some cultivars like ‘Burgundy Lace’ displaying a more dominant reddish-purple.

Another plant sometimes associated with this color is the Heart Fern (Hemionitis arifolia). While primarily a deep green, its distinct, heart-shaped leaves can develop a subtle purplish or reddish tint on their undersides and stems, particularly in juvenile plants. Though not as overtly purple as the Japanese Painted Fern, its unique leaf shape and potential for color accents make it a noteworthy variety.

Essential Care and Growing Conditions

Light

Proper lighting is fundamental for the health and coloration of these ferns. They thrive in bright, indirect light. An ideal location would be near an east-facing window where they receive gentle morning sun, or a few feet back from a south or west-facing window where the light is filtered. Exposing the fern to gentle morning sun can deepen the purple tones. Direct, harsh sunlight will scorch their delicate fronds, and while they tolerate lower light, their coloration will likely fade.

Water

Consistent moisture is a requirement for most ferns. The soil should be kept evenly moist but never waterlogged or soggy, which can lead to root rot. Water thoroughly when the top inch of the soil begins to feel slightly dry to the touch. It is best to use room-temperature, filtered, or distilled water, as these ferns can be sensitive to the chemicals found in tap water. Reduce the frequency of watering during the winter months when the plant’s growth naturally slows down.

Soil

A suitable potting medium is one that can retain moisture while also providing excellent drainage. A high-quality, peat-based potting mix is a great starting point. To improve aeration and drainage, amend the mix with perlite or orchid bark.

Humidity & Temperature

Originating from woodland floors and tropical regions, these ferns flourish in high-humidity environments. A bathroom or kitchen with ambient moisture can be an ideal location. To supplement humidity levels, you can use a room humidifier, group plants together, or place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water. They prefer temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) and should be protected from sudden temperature drops and cold drafts from windows or doors.

Fertilizer

During the active growing season of spring and summer, a balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied to support healthy growth. Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to avoid burning the sensitive roots. Feed the plant once a month, but cease fertilization entirely in the fall and winter when growth naturally ceases. Over-fertilizing can be more harmful than under-fertilizing, so a conservative approach is always best.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One of the most common signs of distress in these ferns is crispy, brown edges on the fronds. This issue almost always points to a lack of humidity in the air or inconsistent watering practices. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist and take steps to increase the ambient humidity around the plant.

A noticeable loss of the desirable purple, red, or silver coloring is caused by insufficient light. If you notice the colors fading, relocate the plant to a brighter spot to revive the plant’s vibrant hues as new fronds emerge.

Keep an eye out for common houseplant pests, particularly spider mites, which are attracted to the warm, dry conditions that ferns dislike. These tiny pests create fine webbing on the undersides of leaves and can cause the foliage to look stippled or yellowed. If you spot them, isolate the plant immediately and treat it by wiping down the fronds with a damp cloth or using an appropriate insecticidal soap, ensuring complete coverage of the plant’s surfaces.