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

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

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

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — scientifically known as Dryopteris erythrosora

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — making it a splendid choice for woodland gardens or shaded borders

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — well-draining soil and part to full shade

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — is a captivating and versatile perennial fern native to East Asia

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) — This hardy fern thrives in USDA zones 5-9

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

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

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — scientifically known as Dryopteris erythrosora

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — making it a splendid choice for woodland gardens or shaded borders

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — well-draining soil and part to full shade

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — is a captivating and versatile perennial fern native to East Asia

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — This deciduous or semi-evergreen fern is celebrated for its dynamic seasonal color display

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — It is also commonly called the Japanese Shield Fern due to its robust nature and shield-like frond

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — making it a splendid addition to a variety of landscape designs

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — the fronds unfurl in striking coppery-pink to orange shades

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — hence the name 'Autumn Fern'

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — reminiscent of autumnal hues

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — As the fronds mature through summer

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — they transform into a rich green

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — providing a tranquil and verdant backdrop

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — moist soil that is rich in organic matter.<br><br>The Autumn Fern is relatively low-maintenance

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — The fern thrives in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 9

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — preferring partially shaded to fully shaded areas with well-draining

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — requiring minimal attention once established

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — It is drought-tolerant, though it benefits significantly from regular watering during prolonged

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — adding to its appeal as a hassle-free selection for both novice and experienced gardeners alike

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — This fern is resistant to most pests and diseases

Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) — fern / ground cover for shade

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