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Dryopteris erythrosora (Autumn fern, Pink shield fern)

Dryopteris erythrosora Photo/Illustration: Jennifer Benner


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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Dryopteris erythrosora dry-OP-ter-iss er-ith-roe-SOR-ah Common Name: Autumn fern, Pink shield fern Genus: Dryopteris
In spring, autumn fern’s fronds unfurl a copper red, then turn to bronze, and finally become a shiny dark green. The fronds are upright and lend a lacy texture to the woodland garden. This fern is usually deciduous. -Lou Anella, Regional Picks: Southern Plains, Fine Gardening issue #127
 Noteworthy characteristics: Effective with most herbaceous plants. Very heat tolerant if given adequate shade and moisture.
 Care: Grow in moist soil and partial to full shade in a protected site.
 Propagation: Sow spores at 59°F when ripe. Divide plants in spring or autumn.
 Problems: Rust, leaf gall, and fungal spore can occur.
Height 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Light Part Shade to Full Shade
Moisture Medium Moisture
Characteristics Showy Foliage
Uses Beds and Borders
Style Woodland Garden
Seasonal Interest Spring Interest, Summer Interest, Fall Interest
Type Fern

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