Fern - Dryopteris erythrosora - Autumn Shield Fern

While ferns do not attract pollinators like flowering plants, the dense foliage of Dryopteris erythrosora offers shelter for small insects and wildlife. Additionally, this fern is deer and rabbit resistant, making it an excellent choice for gardens in areas where wildlife may be an issue.

• Seasonality: Semi-evergreen; retains some fronds in warmer climates and may die back in colder regions, regrowing in spring.

• Flowering Season: Ferns do not produce flowers. Instead, they reproduce via spores, which appear on the undersides of the fronds in late summer.

Woodland gardens

Shaded borders and walkways

Understory planting beneath trees and shrubs

Moist rock gardens

Mixed foliage containers (shade)

Groundcover for shaded slopes or naturalized areas

•  The fronds of the Autumn Shield Fern emerge coppery-red to bronze in spring and mature to a deep, glossy green over time. The fronds are finely divided and form a graceful, arching habit. The new growth, which appears in vivid copper tones, adds color to shaded areas throughout the growing season. In the fall, the fronds may take on a bronze or red tint, adding extra seasonal interest.

Dryopteris erythrosora does not produce flowers.

It is a spore-bearing plant—a true fern.

Reproduction occurs via sori (clusters of spore-producing structures) found on the undersides of fertile fronds.

These appear as small brown dots or lines in organized patterns.

• Planting Season: Plant in early spring or fall when the temperatures are cool, allowing the fern to establish its roots before the growing season or winter dormancy.

• Soil Requirements: Prefers rich, well-drained, consistently moist soil. Amending the soil with organic matter, such as compost, will improve moisture retention and provide nutrients.

• Spacing: Space plants 24-30 inches apart to allow for mature spread and to create a dense, full appearance.

Planting Instructions:

1. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
2. Place the fern in the hole with the top of the root ball level with the soil surface.
3. Backfill with soil, tamp gently, and water thoroughly.
4. Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pruning is minimal for the Autumn Shield Fern. In late fall or early spring, remove any dead or damaged fronds to encourage healthy growth. Cut back any fronds that have died over the winter to make way for fresh spring growth. This fern maintains its natural shape and does not require frequent pruning.

The Autumn Shield Fern prefers consistently moist soil and should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, as ferns thrive in well-drained environments. Regular watering is important, particularly in the first growing season, to establish a healthy root system.

Thrives in partial shade to full shade. Dryopteris erythrosora does best in locations with dappled sunlight or morning sun followed by afternoon shade. Too much direct sunlight can cause the fronds to scorch, so it is best suited to shaded or woodland garden areas.

There is no need to harvest Dryopteris erythrosora for any particular purpose, but its striking fronds can be cut for use in floral arrangements. Harvest fronds when they are mature and healthy for use in fresh or dried floral displays.

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost to encourage healthy growth and vibrant fronds. A second light application of fertilizer in mid-summer can help sustain the plant’s vigor throughout the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to lush growth that may weaken the plant's structure.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weeds.

• Pest and Disease Resistance: Dryopteris erythrosora is generally resistant to pests and diseases. Ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid overly wet conditions to prevent fungal issues.

• Winter Care: In colder climates, the fern will die back in winter but regrow in spring. No special winter protection is needed, but adding a layer of mulch over the root zone can help insulate the plant during freezing temperatures.

• Ferns are non-flowering vascular plants and do not require pollination.
  
• They reproduce asexually through spores.
  
• No insects, birds, or wind is needed for pollination.
  
• Spores disperse through the air and germinate in moist, shady conditions.
  
  

Shade-Loving Perennials:

• Heuchera (Coral Bells): Colorful foliage provides contrast to the fern’s coppery fronds.
  
• Hosta: Bold, large leaves balance the fine texture of ferns.
  
• Tiarella (Foamflower): Offers delicate blooms and foliage contrast in part to full shade.
  
• Pulmonaria (Lungwort): Early spring flowers and speckled leaves complement the fern’s structure.
  
• Brunnera macrophylla (Siberian Bugloss): Heart-shaped leaves and sky-blue spring flowers.
  
• Epimedium: Delicate flowers and drought tolerance make it a versatile woodland companion.
  
• Astilbe: Adds plume-like flowers and thrives in the same moisture and shade conditions.
  

Woodland Shrubs:

• Hydrangea macrophylla: Works well in part shade, offering seasonal blooms.
  
• Clethra alnifolia (Summersweet): Fragrant white flowers attract pollinators and thrive in moist soil.
  

Rhododendron or Azalea: Evergreen structure and spring color; prefers acidic soils like Dryopteris.