Slow to start in spring, but once this guy gets going, the long, leathery fronds can reach 4 feet! Tall and tough, this Fern is happiest in moist, well-drained soil and is even somewhat sun tolerant in areas where summers are not too hot. Z. 5-8

A handsome vase-shaped clumper, this woodland species from East Asia has polished fronds that are evergreen. In spring and fall the new growth is a rosy copper, and the spore clusters on the back of the fronds are bright red before ripening. Plant in a shady site away from sharp winds. Our plants should size up quickly in your garden to about 24 inches. Georgia Gold Medal Award. Z. 5-9

A handsome vase-shaped clumper, this woodland species from East Asia has polished fronds that are evergreen. In spring and fall the new growth is a rosy copper, and the spore clusters on the back of the fronds are bright red before ripening. This selection boasts even brighter new shoots than the species. Plant in a shady site away from sharp winds. Our plants should size up quickly in your garden to about 24 inches. Z. 5-9

Shiny, erect fronds up to 2 feet long look lush and hint at the tropics. This evergreen Fern grows dense, and the ends of the fronds droop somewhat at the tips—most elegant! Z. 6-9

This deciduous Dryopteris is a slender, vase-shaped plant with fronds 18-36 inches long. The fronds are narrow and held stiffly erect. Z. 5-8

A naturally occurring hybrid, this Fern bears broad fronds to perhaps 4-5 feet that are nevertheless delicate in outline. Z. 5-8

A semi-evergreen Fern of southeastern swamps and wet woods with occasional populations north to New York, the Log Fern has handsome, deep green fronds 3-4 feet long with elegant, slender leaflet tips. As the common name would suggest, this Fern likes to inhabit rotting logs or other suitable habitats rich in organic matter. Z. 5-9