perennial

Autumn Fern

The Story

Plant Bio

Dryopteris erythrosora, the autumn fern, is a semi-evergreen fern noted for its striking new fronds, which emerge in shades of coppery-red to pinkish-bronze before maturing to a glossy, deep green. It forms an arching, vase-shaped clump.

Its key feature is the colorful new growth that provides multi-season interest, contrasting beautifully with the mature green fronds. It is relatively tolerant of drier soils once established compared to other ferns.

Uses & Benefits:

Purple Leatherleaf Fern provides striking foliage that enhances shaded landscape areas with its unique color and texture.

Helps retain soil moisture in shaded gardens and prevents erosion.

Supports local biodiversity by providing habitat for insects and small wildlife.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Consistent moisture

Humidity

Prefers humid environments

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Early spring – Late fall

In flower about 9 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a shaded location with moist, well-drained soil.
Tuck seeds or divisions into the soil, keeping roots moist.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture.
Transplant in early spring after last frost.
Water consistently during dry spells.

Pro Tip

Ensure consistent moisture and shade for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 💧
Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Divide every 3-4 years to rejuvenate

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch fronds ❌
Do not let soil dry out completely
Skip fertilizing during winter

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shady woodland gardenTextured border with purple accentsMoist, shaded groundcover

Companion Plants

Hosta AstilbeFoamflower Japanese Forest Grass Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Autumn Fern questions

What zones can Autumn Fern grow in?

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 Autumn Fern deer resistant?

Yes — Autumn Fern is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Autumn Fern bloom?

Autumn Fern typically blooms in early spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Autumn Fern need full sun?

Autumn Fern does best in part shade.