Coppery New Growth
Produces striking copper-red to bronze young fronds that gradually mature to green.
Estimated Delivery:Nov 22 - Nov 26
Free Shipping on All Orders
Dryopteris erythrosora, commonly known as autumn fern, is an ornamental evergreen to semi-evergreen fern admired for its coppery-red new fronds that mature into deep green foliage. It adds texture and color to shaded gardens, woodland borders, and containers. This fern grows best in moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil and partial to full shade. Ferns reproduce through spores rather than true seeds, so confirm the planting material supplied before purchasing or sowing.
Produces striking copper-red to bronze young fronds that gradually mature to green.
Features finely divided fronds that add texture and year-round garden interest in suitable climates.
Grows well in shaded borders, woodland gardens, and sheltered planting areas.
Can be grown in containers with moisture-retentive, well-drained growing medium.
| Scientific Name | Dryopteris erythrosora |
| Common Name | Autumn Fern; Japanese Shield Fern |
| Plant Family | Dryopteridaceae |
| Plant Type | Evergreen to Semi-Evergreen Fern |
| Propagation | Spores or division; verify whether the product contains spores |
| Foliage Color | Coppery-red new growth, maturing to green |
| Growth Habit | Clumping, arching fern |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | Generally Zones 5–8, depending on local conditions |
| Planting Season | Spring or fall for established plants; spore sowing depends on propagation method |
| Germination Time | Variable; fern spores require specialized conditions and may take weeks or longer to develop |
| Sunlight | Partial shade to full shade |
| Soil Requirements | Humus-rich, moisture-retentive, well-drained soil |
| Watering | Keep soil consistently moist without waterlogging |
| Mature Height | Approximately 18–24 inches, depending on growing conditions |
| Plant Spacing | Approximately 18–24 inches for established plants |
| Uses | Shade Gardens, Woodland Borders, Containers, and Ground Cover |
Dryopteris erythrosora brings distinctive copper-red new growth and lush green foliage to shaded garden spaces. With consistent moisture, humus-rich soil, and protection from harsh sunlight, this ornamental fern can provide attractive foliage interest throughout the growing season.
Learn about autumn fern propagation, its colorful new fronds, and suitable growing conditions.
Dryopteris erythrosora is a fern and does not produce true seeds. It reproduces through spores, which require suitable moisture, humidity, and growing conditions to develop. Before planting, confirm whether your package contains viable fern spores or another form of propagation material.
The young fronds of Dryopteris erythrosora naturally emerge in coppery-red, bronze, or reddish-orange shades. As they mature, they gradually turn green. This changing foliage color is a distinctive feature of autumn fern and adds seasonal interest to shaded gardens.
Autumn fern grows best in partial to full shade with humus-rich, well-drained soil that retains moisture. Water regularly during dry periods and protect the plant from intense afternoon sun, particularly in hot climates. Good drainage helps prevent root problems.