Brilliance Autumn Fern
Dryopteris erythrosora 'Brilliance'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Fern
Height
24 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7
Water
Consistently moist
Humidity
High humidity preferred
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Asia and North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Dryopteris erythrosora 'Brilliance' is known for its striking coppery-red fronds that mature to a rich green, making it a popular choice for gardens. This cultivar stands out due to its vibrant red foliage in the spring, which adds a dramatic effect to shaded areas.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Select a shaded or partially shaded spot with well-draining soil.
- Tuck young plants into the soil at the same depth as in the nursery container.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around roots.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
- Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced, organic fertilizer.
Pro Tip
Ensure consistent moisture and avoid direct sunlight for healthiest growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
- Apply mulch annually to retain soil moisture
- Prune dead or damaged fronds in early spring
Don't
- Avoid exposing the fern to direct, harsh sunlight ❌
- Do not let the soil dry out completely
- Refrain from over-fertilizing, which can cause leggy growth
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
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 4–7. 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.
More Dryopteris to compare
Broad Buckler-fern
Dryopteris dilatata 'Jimmy Dyce'
Log Fern
Dryopteris x celsa 'Shreveport'
Autumn Fern
Dryopteris erythrosora
Shaggy Shield Fern
Dryopteris cycadina
Western Wood Fern The King Fern
Dryopteris affinis 'The King'
Goldie's Wood Fern
Dryopteris goldieana
Keep exploring
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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.
