fernN. America Native

Brilliance Autumn Fern

Nephrolepis exaltata 'Brilliance Autumn'

The Story

Plant Bio

Dryopteris erythrosora 'Brilliance' is a semi-evergreen fern with arching fronds. New fronds emerge a coppery-red or orange-pink color in spring, maturing to a glossy dark green in summer.

This cultivar is noted for its exceptionally bright, glossy new growth, providing multi-season interest. It is also deer and rabbit resistant.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAdds lush, tropical greenery to shaded indoor and outdoor spaces, enhancing aesthetic appeal.
Practical UsesImproves indoor air quality by filtering pollutants and increasing humidity.
Ecological BenefitsProvides habitat for beneficial insects and contributes to biodiversity.
SpeciesNephrolepis exaltataBoston Fern

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

24"

Width

18"

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium to wet

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck spores or divisions into moist soil in spring.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
  3. Ensure soil remains consistently moist for lush growth.
  4. Provide bright, indirect light for optimal health.
  5. Fertilize monthly during active growing season.
  6. Transplant when roots become crowded in early spring.

Pro Tip

Maintain high humidity around your fern for vibrant, healthy foliage.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Keep soil consistently moist 🌱
  • Provide indirect bright light
  • Fertilize monthly during growing season
  • Mist regularly to boost humidity

Don't

  • Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch fronds ❌
  • Don’t let soil dry out completely
  • Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature changes

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Mulch
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Lush indoor fern displayGreen border in shaded gardensVibrant container arrangement

Companion Plants

HostaCaladiumFerns ImpatiensBegonias

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Brilliance Autumn Fern questions

What zones can Brilliance Autumn Fern grow in?

Brilliance 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 Brilliance Autumn Fern deer resistant?

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

Does Brilliance Autumn Fern need full sun?

Brilliance Autumn Fern does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Brilliance 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.