Athyrium filix-femina 'Victoriae'

 Lady Fern Athyriaceae

A lady fern with rather more attitude than its demure name might suggest. The fronds of ‘Victoriae’ are finely divided, but it is the extraordinary arrangement of the narrow pinnae that makes this Victorian curiosity so distinctive: they cross and recross along the rachis to produce a succession of little green Xs, while the tips are often crested into elegant, slightly drooping tassels. The overall effect is delicate, architectural and just a little eccentric — precisely the sort of fern that sent Victorian pteridomaniacs into raptures.

It was discovered in 1861 by James Cosh, while walking through the Duke of Montrose’s Buchanan estate in Stirlingshire, Scotland. The plant was moved into the estate garden and eventually came to the attention of the fern expert John Sadler, who described it as a remarkably beautiful variety and suggested that it should be named ‘Victoria’, “as a queen amongst Lady Ferns”. It therefore belongs squarely to the great Victorian fern-collecting tradition rather than being a modern selection.

Deciduous and forming a handsome upright to arching clump, it is excellent for a cool woodland setting, particularly where the intricate fronds can be appreciated at close quarters. Give it fertile, humus-rich, reliably moist but well-drained soil and shade or partial shade; shelter from strong winds keeps those finely divided fronds looking their best. 

Hardiness: H6 (-20 to -15°C)
Height: 50–60 cm
Spread: 50–60 cm
Foliage: Deciduous; fresh green
Season: Spring–autumn