New York Fern
Thelypteris noveboracensis
Last reviewed: June 2026
New York Fern (Thelypteris noveboracensis) is a deciduous native fern found across eastern North America from Maine to Georgia. This woodland species thrives in partial shade and moist soils.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag New York Fern as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 23 more states
This native deciduous fern forms attractive colonies through underground rhizomes. It has delicate, bright green fronds that create a soft, feathery texture in shaded garden areas and turns golden-brown in fall before going dormant.
Growing New York Fern
Grow New York Fern in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
New York Fern is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.
- Goes completely dormant in winter leaving bare ground
- Can spread aggressively and may need containment
Wildlife value
Ferns don't attract pollinators since they don't flower, but this fern provides shelter and nesting sites for small wildlife and birds.
Common questions
- Where does New York Fern naturally grow?
- New York Fern is native to eastern North America, ranging from Maine south to Georgia and west to Illinois and Oklahoma. It naturally occurs in moist woodlands and forest understories.
- What growing conditions does Thelypteris noveboracensis prefer?
- New York Fern grows best in partial shade to full shade with consistently moist soil. It can tolerate some morning sun but prefers protection from harsh afternoon light.
- How can you identify New York Fern?
- New York Fern has distinctive fronds that taper at both the top and bottom, creating a distinctive tapering silhouette. The fronds are typically 12-24 inches long and emerge from creeping underground rhizomes.
- Does New York Fern lose its leaves in winter?
- Yes, New York Fern is deciduous and dies back to the ground each winter, reemerging from its rhizomes in spring.
- Is New York Fern toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag New York Fern as toxic to livestock.
- Is New York Fern HOA-friendly?
- New York Fern is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow New York Fern? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz