If you are a fern lover, but don t have shade, don t despair. There are sun-loving ferns. It is even possible to grow some of the shade lovers in the sun, but soil preparation and water are crucial to survival. There are two native species and several hundred cultivars in the trade. They differ by the amount of cutting in the leaves, with colors ranging from reds to greens.
Some cultivars are dwarves no taller than a foot, with other varieties growing upwards of six feet.
The southern lady fern is supremely adapted to a wide range of sun and soil characters. They can be quite drought tolerant, after they are established. These plants will grow in both full sun to total shade, but will require more water, and a more organic soil in the sun. Bracken Fern Pteridium aquilinum Another sun lover. Give it space, for it is aggressive.