This fern comes back each year. It never seems to get any larger. It is delicate and has a pure green color. Can anyone help me out with a name?

I am not an expert, but that's a really beautiful fern and I think I want one.

I hope bumping it up will get someone's attention who can ID it.

I guess I should've asked if you think it's a native, or if it could be an exotic garden specimen? If you think it's likely a native fern, I wonder if it could be a form or hybrid (there are more than a few Dryopteris hybrids) of Dryopteris intermedia?
http://bonap.net/Napa/TaxonMap...

At its page in the database, @ILPARW has included a helpful note saying the fronds can get to 40", but I'm guessing your fern isn't that large? I can't find an online photo that is a great match for your photo, but it is similarly lacy... yours may be an especially fine-cut and/or petite form?
Intermediate Woodfern (Dryopteris intermedia)

If it could be an import, an expert really would be handy. This is the best I can do, and I'm aware it isn't much.

This fern has such fine little leaflets that I am not sure what it is. Possibly a young D. intermedia. Check by posting this to the Pennsylvania Native Plant Society. I am a horticulturist and not a full-blooded botanist.

My plant app say it is Swordfern, sometimes called Boston Swordfern. Likes shade.

The pinna is not opposite but alternate along the stipe. It is a clump grower. It is growing outside with no extra protection in zone 6. It is delicate and soft. I do not remember where it was purchased. I never see any sori on the back. the whole frond is usually only 12" long.
this is the front.

This is the backside.




Thank you everyone for your help.