Autumn Fern

Dryopteris erythrosora

$18.00

1 Gallon | Hardiness Zones 5-9

Dryopteris erythrosora, also called Autumn fern, is a shade-loving, evergreen fern with bold, triangular fronds. Its copper-colored new growth adds seasonal contrast in woodland areas.

This fern maintains color and form year-round. It performs best in semi-shady to shady sites with moist, well-drained soil. Use it along borders, under trees, or in shaded garden beds.

Dryopteris erythrosora is a dependable choice for shaded gardens where low-growing, structured greenery is needed. As an evergreen fern, it supports foliage consistency across seasons and works well in native or ornamental plantings.

Photo courtesy of Hardy Fern Foundation.

Pickup available at Aiken Nursery

Usually ready in 2-4 days

Schedule Delayed Shipping in your Cart

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Grown for Success
Propagated at Woodlanders

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Shipping
Expertly packed & shipped in 2-4 biz days

Plant Specs
  • Zones: 5 - 9
  • Sun: Part Shade and Full Shade
  • Soil: Moist and Well-drained
  • Height at Maturity: 1 - 2 Feet
  • Spread at Maturity: 1 - 2 Feet
  • Growth Rate: Fast

Evergreen
Flower/Foliage

Frond Structure: Produces arching fronds that emerge coppery-red, maturing to dark green.

  • Seasonal Color: The fronds display a striking coppery-red color in spring and autumn, transitioning to a rich green in summer.

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Care Info

Read full care instruction manual here.

Light Requirements: Prefers partial to full shade. It can tolerate some morning sun, but too much direct sunlight can scorch the fronds and cause the foliage to lose its vibrant color.

Soil Requirements: Thrives in moist, well-draining soil. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0). Amending the soil with organic matter such as compost or leaf mold can improve soil fertility and structure. It can tolerate a range of soil types but performs best in rich, loamy soil.

Watering: Requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply to ensure the root zone is adequately hydrated. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Temperature and Humidity: Hardy in USDA zones 5-9. Prefers moderate temperatures and high humidity. It is well-suited to temperate climates. In colder regions, the fronds may die back in winter but will re-emerge in spring.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth. An additional application of compost or well-rotted manure can enhance soil fertility. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of overall plant health.

Pruning: Remove dead or damaged fronds as needed to maintain a tidy appearance and to encourage new growth. In late winter or early spring, prune back any old fronds to make way for the new growth that will emerge in the spring.

Pests and Problems: Generally pest-resistant and not prone to serious diseases. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. If pests such as slugs or snails are detected, treat with appropriate measures such as organic slug pellets or barriers. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of disease or pest infestation.

Here’s a closer look at how we produce our plants:

From rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.

The majority of our plants are carefully cultivated from rooted cuttings, while we also utilize propagation methods such as seed, air layering, and grafting, thoughtfully chosen to suit each plant’s unique needs.

Our plants are cultivated using sustainable practices, including organic soil blends and eco-friendly pest management, ensuring they thrive while minimizing environmental impact.

We are proud to contribute to local biodiversity through ongoing donations to the Aiken Arboretum and support for local wildlife conservation efforts, helping to preserve and enhance our community’s natural ecosystems.

Grown in Aiken, South Carolina

At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.

All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.

Learn more about Woodlanders here.

Plant Success Tip #1

Unpack Promptly

Carefully unpack your plant as soon as it arrives. Check the roots and soil to ensure they are still moist. If the roots feel dry, lightly mist or water them before proceeding with planting or temporary storage.

Plant Success Tip #2

Acclimate Your Plant

Allow your plant to adjust to its new environment by placing it in a sheltered spot for a day or two before planting, especially if it has traveled a long distance. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures right away.

Plant Success Tip #3

Follow Planting and Care Instructions

Plant your new arrival as soon as possible, following the specific care guidelines provided. If planting outdoors isn’t immediately possible, temporarily pot it in well-draining soil to maintain health until conditions are suitable.

Read Care Instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect upon delivery

All our plants are sold in 1-gallon sizes, though the height of each plant can vary depending on its growth rate and seasonality, typically ranging from 1/2 to 2.5 feet.

Each plant is carefully packaged with its roots enclosed in a secure plastic bag containing moist soil, forming a compact root ball. To ensure safe transport, the box is padded with recycled newspaper, providing both stability and eco-friendly protection from weather during shipping.
What is your return policy?

Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.
What payment methods can I use?

We offer 35 different payment methods including major providers like Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, American Express and Diners as well as many different local payment methods including Klarna, iDEAL, AliPay, Sofort, giropay, and many more.
Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?

At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.