Dryopteris erythrosora (Autumn Fern, Copper Shield Fern) — triangular, bipinnate fronds; new growth emerges copper-red, orange, or salmon-pink before maturing to glossy deep green. Partial to full shade. Morning sun intensifies the copper-red colour of fresh spring fronds.
Quantity
Couldn't load pickup availability
🌿 Grown at our London nursery — collect in person or arrange local delivery
📦 Dispatched within 3 business days via Royal Mail
Product features
Botanical name: Dryopteris erythrosora
Common name: Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern, Copper Shield Fern
Height: 45cm to 60cm
Spread: 45cm to 60cm
Foliage: Triangular, bipinnate fronds, copper-red new growth maturing to deep green
Flower: None, produces orange-red spore clusters
Attractive to wildlife: Low, minor ground cover shelter
Soil Type: Moist but well-drained, humus-rich, fertile
Drought tolerant: Moderately, more resistant once established
Hardy: Fully hardy, survives below -15°C
Position: Partial to deep shade, tolerates morning sun
Evergreen: Semi-evergreen
Suitable for: Shaded borders, pathways, ground cover, containers
Materials and care
Light: Partial or full shade — morning sun intensifies copper-red colour
Aspect: North-, east-, or west-facing, sheltered from harsh winds
Soil type: Fertile, humus-rich, organic soil
Drainage: Moist but well-drained
Watering: Medium needs, tolerates brief dry spells once established
End of season: No autumn cutting needed, semi-evergreen through winter
Fertiliser: Apply thick leaf mould or organic compost mulch each spring
Propagation: Divide multi-headed root crowns in early spring
