Dryopteris erythrosora - Japanese Shield Fern
Japanese Shield Fern, Autumn Fern, Shaggy Shield Fern
Position
- Partial to full shade
- Sheltered from strong winds
- North or east-facing aspects ideal
- Protected from direct afternoon sun
- Woodland settings perfect
- Can tolerate morning sun
Hardiness
- Tolerates temperatures down to -20°C (-4°F)
- Evergreen in sheltered positions
- May need winter protection in exposed sites
Soil Type
- Rich, moist but well-draining soil
- Humus-rich woodland soil type
- Prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH
- Cannot tolerate waterlogged conditions
- Benefits from organic matter incorporation
Soil PH
- Prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH
Height
- Height: 60-90cm (24-36 inches)
- Spread: 60-90cm (24-36 inches)
- Takes 3-5 years to reach full size
Seasons of Interest
- New fronds emerge copper-pink in spring
- Mature fronds deep green in summer
- Bronze highlights in autumn
- Evergreen in sheltered spots
- No flowers (ornamental fern)
- Year-round colour interest
- Distinctive copper-toned new growth
Additional Notes
- Excellent for shady borders and woodland gardens
- Perfect companion for hostas and heucheras
- Low maintenance once established
- Suitable for containers
- Retains good winter structure
- Regular mulching beneficial
- Avoid overhead watering
- Deer and rabbit resistant
- Good for urban gardens
- Works well under trees
- Benefits from annual removal of damaged fronds
- More colourful in lighter shade
- Does well in north-facing aspects
- Tolerates dry shade once established
- Provides winter interest
- Good specimen plant
- Maintains shape without spreading aggressively
- Particularly striking during spring flush
- Excellent contrast with traditional green ferns
Dryopteris erythrosora: The Autumn Fern
The Autumn Fern brings dynamic colour changes and year-round interest to shaded gardens. This distinctive fern offers an ever-changing display of copper, pink, and green fronds throughout the growing season.
Physical Characteristics
Dryopteris erythrosora grows into neat clumps reaching 60-90cm (24-36 inches) in height. The triangular fronds create an upright, arching form that adds structure to borders. Each new frond emerges in stunning copper-pink tones before maturing.
Growing Requirements
This adaptable fern thrives in partial to full shade conditions. It prefers rich, well-draining soil with consistent moisture. The strong root system helps establish permanent plantings in woodland settings.
Seasonal Interest
Spring brings spectacular displays of coppery-pink new growth. Summer sees the fronds mature to deep green, while autumn brings bronze highlights. Winter interest continues with evergreen foliage in sheltered locations.
Garden Uses
The Autumn Fern excels in various garden situations. It creates striking focal points in woodland gardens and shaded borders. The colourful fronds provide excellent contrast against traditional green ferns.
Care and Maintenance
This low-maintenance fern needs minimal attention once established. Remove damaged fronds in late winter before new growth begins. Annual mulching helps maintain soil moisture and adds nutrients naturally.
Planting Tips
Plant in spring or autumn when soil conditions prove most favourable. Space plants 60cm (24 inches) apart to allow for mature spread. Incorporate organic matter during planting to improve soil structure.
Soil Requirements
Dryopteris erythrosora adapts to most soil types but prefers rich, well-draining conditions. It tolerates both acidic and neutral soils. Adding leaf mould or garden compost improves growing conditions significantly.
Companion Plants
This fern pairs beautifully with other shade-lovers. Consider combining with hostas, heucheras, and spring bulbs. The colourful fronds provide excellent contrast throughout the growing season.
Container Growing
Though naturally medium-sized, the Autumn Fern grows successfully in containers. Use pots at least 30cm (12 inches) deep with reliable drainage. Regular watering proves essential for container specimens.
Problem Solving
This robust fern rarely encounters serious problems. Occasional brown fronds might appear during extended dry spells. Increase watering during drought periods and remove any damaged growth promptly.
Climate Tolerance
The Autumn Fern shows excellent hardiness, withstanding temperatures down to -20°C (-4°F). It performs well throughout most UK gardens, particularly in areas with reliable rainfall or irrigation.
Final Thoughts
Dryopteris erythrosora offers gardeners a distinctive and reliable choice for shaded areas. Its changing colours, robust nature, and year-round presence make it valuable in various garden settings. This low-maintenance fern brings sophisticated colour changes and dependable performance to challenging shade conditions.
The combination of copper-pink new growth, mature green fronds, and bronze autumn tints creates interest throughout the year. Whether in borders, woodland gardens, or containers, the Autumn Fern proves itself as a worthy addition to any shade garden design.
The fern’s ability to maintain interest through multiple seasons, combined with its easy-care nature, makes it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Its distinctive colouring adds warmth and depth to shaded areas where many plants might struggle.
Check out the RHS article here.
For more information on ferns for your garden please click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Dryopteris erythrosora grow?
A: Dryopteris erythrosora typically reaches heights of 60-90cm (24-36 inches). Its upright and arching fronds create an attractive presence in shaded gardens.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for the Autumn Fern?
A: This fern thrives in partial to full shade. It prefers rich, well-draining soil that retains consistent moisture to support healthy growth.
Q: How hardy is Dryopteris erythrosora?
A: This fern can withstand temperatures down to -20°C (-4°F). It grows well in the UK, adapting to various shaded environments.
Q: When should I plant the Autumn Fern?
A: Plant in spring or autumn for optimal results. These seasons allow the roots to establish before extreme weather conditions occur.
Q: Does it require a lot of maintenance?
A: Once established, Dryopteris erythrosora needs minimal maintenance. Remove damaged fronds in late winter and apply mulch to retain soil moisture.
Q: Can I grow it in containers?
A: Yes, the Autumn Fern can thrive in containers. Choose pots at least 30cm (12 inches) deep and ensure good drainage for healthy growth.
Q: What plants pair well with Dryopteris erythrosora?
A: This fern works beautifully with shade-loving plants like hostas, heucheras, and spring bulbs. Its colourful foliage provides a striking contrast.
Q: How does it respond to dry conditions?
A: While it prefers consistent moisture, the Autumn Fern can tolerate short dry spells once established. Prolonged dryness may cause browning of the fronds.
Q: Is it prone to pests or diseases?
A: Dryopteris erythrosora generally resists pests and diseases. Good air circulation and regular inspections help maintain its health.
Q: What seasonal interest does it provide?
A: In spring, fresh fronds emerge in stunning copper-pink, transitioning to deep green by summer. Autumn brings bronze highlights, offering year-round appeal.