Coniogramme emeiensis ‘Golden Zebra’ is one of the most striking hardy ferns in cultivation—a gold‑striped, bamboo‑like fern from the mountains of Sichuan. The short version: it’s a shade‑loving, moisture‑seeking woodland fern that thrives in Yakima if kept cool, evenly moist, and protected from harsh sun.
🌿 Identity & Origin
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A semi‑evergreen fern native to Mount Emei (Sichuan, China).
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Grows in cool, humid forest understories and along shaded slopes.
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Known for its bright yellow midrib and pinna stripes, giving a “zebra” pattern.
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Belongs to the Pteridaceae family (same as maidenhair ferns).
🍃 What it looks like
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Fronds: 18–36 in (45–90 cm), arching, bamboo‑like, with golden longitudinal stripes.
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Texture: smooth, glossy, tropical‑looking despite being hardy.
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Habit: clumping, slowly expanding; not invasive.
🌱 Care Guide (Yakima‑friendly)
Light
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Bright shade or dappled woodland light.
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Morning sun is fine; avoid hot afternoon sun which washes out the gold striping.
Soil
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Moist, humus‑rich, well‑draining woodland soil.
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Add compost, leaf mold, or fine bark to mimic forest duff.
Water
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Keep evenly moist
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Does not tolerate drought
Humidity
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Appreciates humidity