Description
Autumn Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora), also known as the Japanese Shield Fern, is a hardy, evergreen fern admired for its vibrant, coppery-red new fronds that mature to a lush green. This unique color-changing foliage gives the plant its name, as the fiery hues are reminiscent of autumn even in spring and summer. Native to East Asia, the Autumn Fern has a graceful, arching habit and reaches about 1 to 2 feet in both height and width, forming dense, tidy clumps.
This fern thrives in partial to full shade, making it ideal for woodland gardens, shaded borders, or as an accent in low-light areas. It performs well in USDA zones 5-9 and prefers moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. While it does best in consistently damp conditions, the Autumn Fern is relatively tolerant of drought once established and can withstand brief dry spells.
Autumn Fern requires minimal care, making it a popular choice for low-maintenance shade gardens. Occasional pruning of older fronds in late winter helps to freshen up its appearance and encourage new growth. Its bold color and texture make it an excellent companion to other shade-loving plants, adding both interest and depth to shaded areas. Whether used as a ground cover, in borders, or as a container plant, the Autumn Fern brings warmth and beauty to landscapes year-round.