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Dryopteris erythrosora
autumn fern
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Image © Carolyn Jones |
Printer-friendly Fact Sheet
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| Outstanding Qualities |
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Autumn fern is an easy-to-grow evergreen fern that features bronzy-red new growth. Upright young fronds contrast nicely with the glossy, dark green mature fronds. The overall effect is quite colorful throughout the growing season, with coloration more pronounced in bright light conditions. The common name, autumn fern, is somewhat misleading, as it refers to the russet tones of the new fronds, which appear more in spring than in autumn. Dryopteris erythrosora spreads slowly by underground rhizomes, becoming a groundcover in time. It is effective planted in mixed shady borders and as a container specimen. Use with bold foliage plants such as hostas or rhododendrons to create contrast and drama. Companion plants with gold leaves and blue foliage look great against the deep green fronds. |
| Culture |
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Dryopteris erythrosora grows well in part shade, where it is fairly drought tolerant. It also grows well in full sun as long as the soil is humus rich and the plant is mulched each spring. In full sun it is not drought tolerant, but should be watered weekly. If desired, old fronds can be removed at their bases in March if they look weather beaten after winter. |
| Growing Habit |
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Dryopteris erythrosora is an evergreen fern that grows up to 24 inches high and wide. For mass plantings, set plants 24 inches on center. |
| Hardiness |
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USDA zones 6 to 9 |
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Funded by the Pendleton and Elisabeth Carey Miller Charitable Foundation
Administered by the Elisabeth Carey Miller Botanical Garden