About lady fern or northern lady fern
Athyrium filix-femina
Perennial fern
Dryopteridaceae or spleenwort family
Maryland Distribution: moist woods, swamps, and thickets throughout the state
Height: 1 - 3 feet
Blooms: Inconspicuous fertile pinnules occur at the tips of the fronds in late spring
Sun: prefers full to partial shade; somewhat tolerant of sunlight as long as soil moisture remains high
Soil: rich, moist soil
Garden Use & Maintenance: the bright green lacy foliage provides a striking contrast in the shade garden; will spread but is slow to colonize