This fern is deciduous so all its fronds will die back in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again each spring.

• Position: full or partial shade
• Soil: moist, fertile, neutral to acid soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Athyrium filix-femina 'Victoriae', is an elegant female fern with delicate, bright green fronds with curiously crested, alternatively arranged pinnae. Often referred to as the Queen of ferns and quite possibly named after Queen Victoria, as fern growing was hugely popular during her reign. Choose a spot with light shade and plenty of moisture around its roots for this unusual, regal deciduous fern.
  
  
• Garden care: Incorporate lots of well-rotted leaf mould, composted pine needles or garden compost into the planting hole. In cold areas in late autumn protect the crown of the plant with a dry mulch of straw or bracken.