Autumn Fern

ℹ️ Dryopteris erythrosora

📝 COMMON NAMES:
Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern, Copper Shield Fern

The Autumn Fern is a versatile, evergreen fern known for its unique color-changing fronds. The young fronds emerge in a beautiful copper-red color that eventually turns green as they mature. Native to Eastern Asia, this fern is hardy and easy to care for, making it a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor gardens.

☠️ Toxicity: Non-toxic to pets and humans
💨 Air-purifying Qualities: Yes
👍 Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

☠️ Non-Toxic ⛅ Bright Indirect Light 🌤 Somewhat Drought-Tolerant 🌱 Terrestrial 🌳 Garden 🌴 Medium Plant 🌿 Ferns 🏛 Classic 👶 Beginner Difficulty 💦 High Humidity 🔅 Medium Light 🔧 Moderate Maintenance.🚿 Regular Watering 🛋 Living Room 🪴 Potted

Autumn Fern Care 101

Water

Autumn Ferns prefer soil that is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's essential to let the top layer of soil dry slightly between waterings. During winter, when the plant's growth slows down, reduce the frequency of watering. Use rainwater or distilled water to prevent salt and mineral buildup in the soil.

Light

The Autumn Fern thrives best in partial to full shade, making it an excellent choice for shaded gardens or indoor spaces with limited light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. Artificial light can also be used to supplement natural light, especially during the darker winter months.

Temperature

The Autumn Fern prefers a temperature range between 60-75°F (15-24°C). It can tolerate lower temperatures but is not frost-tolerant. Moderate humidity levels are adequate for this fern, although higher humidity can be beneficial. If your home is particularly dry, consider using a humidity tray or room humidifier, or mist the leaves occasionally.

Fertilizer

A balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied every 6-8 weeks during the growing season. Always dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to prevent fertilizer burn. In winter, reduce the frequency of fertilization as the plant's growth slows down. It's essential to water the plant well before and after applying fertilizer.

Care and Maintenance

🌱 Soil Type and pH: Well-draining, acidic to neutral soil
💦 Humidity and Misting: Moderate humidity; misting can be beneficial
✂️ Pruning: Remove dead or damaged fronds
🧼 Cleaning: Wipe leaves with a damp cloth
🪴 Repotting: When roots become crowded
🔄 Repotting Frequency: Every 2-3 years
❄️ Seasonal Changes in Care: Less water and fertilizer in winter

FULL CARE GUIDE

Growing Characteristics

💥 Growth Speed: Moderate
🔄 Life Cycle: Perennial
💥 Bloom Time: N/A
🌍 Hardiness Zones: 5-9
🗺️ Native Area: Eastern Asia
🛌 Hibernation: No

Propagation and Health

📍 Suitable Locations: Shaded gardens, indoor spaces
🌱 Propagation Methods: Division or spores
🐛 Common Pests: Aphids, spider mites
🦠 Possible Diseases: Root rot

Plant Details

🌴 Plant Type: Fern
🍃 Foliage Type: Evergreen
🌿 Color of Leaves: Copper-red to green
🌸 Flower Color: N/A
🌸 Blooming: Does not bloom
🍪 Edibility: Not edible
📏 Mature Size: Up to 2 feet tall and wide

Taxonomy

👑 Kingdom: Plantae
🎖️ Division: Pteridophyta
🏫 Class: Polypodiopsida
📜 Order: Polypodiales
👪 Family: Dryopteridaceae
🌿 Genus: Dryopteris
🔬 Species: D. erythrosora

Additional Info

🌻 General Benefits: Air purification
⚕️ Medical Properties: None known
☯️ Feng Shui: Represents growth and new beginnings
✨ Zodiac Sign Compatibility: Cancer
🍀 Symbolism or Folklore: No specific symbolism or folklore
📖 Interesting Facts: Known for its color-changing fronds

Buying and Usage

🛒 What to Look for When Buying: Healthy fronds, no sign of pests or diseases
🌱 Other Uses: Decorative

Decoration and Styling

🖼️ Display Ideas: Container gardens, shaded borders
🎨 Styling Tips: Pairs well with other shade-loving plants