Fern
Autumn Fern
Dryopteris erythrosora
Traits
Varieties We Carry
BrillianceDryopteris erythrosoraStandardDryopteris erythrosora
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$6.95
3 galFrom$14.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Apr 8.
LightPart Shade, Full Shade
WaterModerate
Mature size1-2 feet × 1-2 feet
About Autumn Fern
Dryopteris erythrosora (autumn fern) is an East Asian fern prized for its brilliantly copper-colored new fronds that mature to glossy dark green. Evergreen in NE Florida's mild winters, it is a Florida-proven shade garden performer, having earned Florida Plant of the Year and Plant of the Decade recognition for its heat tolerance and low maintenance. Starting at $6.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Non-flowering
- Flower Color
- Non-flowering
- Growth Rate
- Slow
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Clay, Sandy, Loam, Acidic, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Good planting window.
Active growing season.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
Autumn fern requires partial to full shade in NE Florida. It tolerates brief morning sun but afternoon shade is essential to prevent frond scorch in summer heat. A proven performer in Florida shaded landscapes — awarded Florida Plant of the Year and Plant of the Decade.
Water
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during establishment. Once established, autumn fern has good drought tolerance but performs best with regular watering in NE Florida's sandy soils. Apply mulch to retain moisture and moderate soil temperature.
Soil & Fertilizer
Grows well in NE Florida's sandy to loamy, acidic, well-drained soils amended with organic matter. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring. This is a low-maintenance, no-spray fern — virtually pest and disease free in Florida landscapes.
Similar needs
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Holly Fern
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Kangaroo Fern
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Common questions
Is Autumn Fern a good plant for St. Augustine?
Autumn Fern is a fern for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 1-2 feet × 1-2 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed March 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.