Perennial – Autumn Fern

Autumn Fern

Botanical name: dryopteris erythrosora 

Beginner friendly?: moderate

Average size at maturity: up to 2 ft in height with up to a 3 ft spread 

Hardy zone: zones 5-9

Foliage color: green, red/orange, brown/gold 

Growth rate: reaches fully mature size in 1-2 growing seasons 

Pruning instructions: prune in the spring and winter to maintain desired shape and size 

Propagation methods: propagate by division 

Landscape use: shade gardens, borders, woodland landscapes

Light needs: less than 2 hours of sun per day 

Special features: deer resistant, disease resistant, heat tolerant

Watering instructions: water when top layer of soil is dry to the touch 

Fertilizing instructions : use a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring 

Best time to plant: spring or summer 

Best type of soil: clay or loam 

Companion plants: caladiums, bleeding hearts, hostas, heucheras

Toxicity level: non-toxic to humans and pets 

Invasive species: yes