Species
Dryopteris erythrosoraAutumn Fern4 other cultivars
The Story
Plant Bio
A hardy, semi-evergreen to evergreen fern. New fronds emerge a coppery-red color in spring, mature to glossy deep green in summer, and can take on russet hues in autumn.
Distinguished by its prolific production of small plantlets (bulbils) on the upper surface of its fronds, which can be easily propagated.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Fern
Height
24 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Prefers consistently moist soil
Humidity
Prefers high humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
East Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck spores into moist, well-draining soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
- Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Provide filtered shade during the hottest part of the day.
- Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Use organic compost to enrich soil and keep roots cool and moist.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Keep soil consistently moist 🌱
- Provide partial to full shade
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
- Fertilize during active growth
Don't
- Avoid direct, harsh sunlight ❌
- Do not let soil dry out completely
- Over-fertilize, which can cause leggy growth
- Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Prolifica Autumn Fern questions
What zones can Prolifica Autumn Fern grow in?
Prolifica Autumn Fern is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Prolifica Autumn Fern deer resistant?
Yes — Prolifica Autumn Fern is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
Does Prolifica Autumn Fern need full sun?
Prolifica Autumn Fern does best in part shade.
More Dryopteris to compare
Log Fern
Dryopteris x separabilis
Shreveport Log Fern
Dryopteris x celsa 'Shreveport'
Autumn Fern
Dryopteris erythrosora
Broad Buckler-fern
Dryopteris dilatata 'Jimmy Dyce'
Shaggy Shield Fern
Dryopteris cycadina
Western Wood Fern The King Fern
Dryopteris affinis 'The King'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Prolifica Autumn Fern with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.