Plant Calculator
Enter the approximate length and width of the area you will be planting and click 'Calculate' to determine how many Athyrium 'Godzilla' you will need.
Correct and successful spacing is complex and depends on project conditions. We encourage you to call us at 877-ECO-PLUG for project specific recommendations and further assistance.
Athyrium 'Godzilla'
Japanese painted fern
- Category: Fern
- Hardiness Zone: 4-10
- Height: 2-3 Feet
- Spread: 3-5 Feet
- Spacing: 18-24 Inches
- Foliage Color: Silver
An introduction by Plant Delights Nursery in 2009, this Japanese painted fern is a monster! Growing up to 3' tall and spreading up to 6' wide, 'Godzilla' has the appearance of 'Picta' with the punch of an ostrich fern. 'Godzilla' is great in shady locations in moist soil to dry shade.
Click here to download technical information for growers:
Additional Information about Athyrium 'Godzilla'
Athyrium ‘Godzilla’ is an impressively large selection of the Japanese painted fern, valued for both its scale and its foliage. Mature plants form an arching clump that can reach up to three feet tall and wide, creating a strong textural presence in shaded plantings. Each divided frond displays a soft silvery sheen washed with muted green tones, while the deep purple to burgundy stems provide a contrast that highlights the fern’s delicate structure.
Despite its substantial size, ‘Godzilla’ maintains the typical characteristics of painted ferns. Over time it will slowly expand to form a broad colony when planted in rich, consistently moist soils with plenty of organic matter. It performs best in partial to full shade, where the cool light helps preserve the metallic coloring of the fronds. In woodland gardens, shaded borders, or along streams and damp garden edges, this fern adds both architectural presence and refined texture, pairing beautifully with shade-loving perennials and other ferns.
Growing & Maintenance Tips for Athyrium 'Godzilla'
Prefers partial to full shade. To shield the crowns and tender spring shoots, leave old fronds on the plant through winter. Remove them in spring once new fronds reach 6 inches tall. If needed, divide in spring.
