Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern

Dryopteris erythrosora

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Overview

Autumn Fern, or Dryopteris erythrosora, is a captivating shade perennial known for its vibrant, unfurling fronds that transition from radiant copper-pink to deep green. Typically reaching 18-24 inches in height and spreading up to 24 inches, it forms a graceful, arching clump. This hardy fern thrives in USDA zones 5-9, preferring moist, well-draining soil and part to full shade, making it a splendid choice for woodland gardens or shaded borders.

Sun ShadeWater Extra in Summer, HighZones 4–10Climate Temperate

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — unfurling fronds that transition from radiant copper-pink to deep green

Culture

Sun: Shade
Water: Extra in Summer, High
USDA zones: 4–10

Shape & size

Classification

Family: Polypodiaceae
Climate: Temperate

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Photos (51)

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — Typically reaching 18-24 inches in height and spreading up to 24 inches, it forms a, image 50

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — unfurling fronds that transition from radiant copper-pink to deep green; well-draining, image 49

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — This hardy fern thrives in USDA zones 5-9; preferring partially shaded to fully shaded, image 51

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