Autumn Fern
For sale in Lawrenceville, GA
- Moderate
- Part Shade to Full Shade
- Cold hardy to USDA Zone 8a
- Deer resistant
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About Autumn Fern
Autumn Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) gets its common name from the coppery-orange color of its new spring fronds, a striking contrast to the deep glossy green they mature into by summer, giving this evergreen-to-semi-evergreen fern more seasonal color interest than most shade ferns. It forms a tidy clump 1.5-2 feet tall and wide and, unlike many ferns, tolerates Georgia's clay soil reasonably well once established, along with brief dry spells better than more moisture-demanding fern species. It is one of the more sun-tolerant ferns available, handling filtered morning light in addition to the deeper shade most ferns require, and it holds its fronds through much of a mild Georgia winter rather than dying back completely. Autumn Fern is also notably deer resistant, an important advantage in wooded Lawrenceville landscapes, making it one of the few reliably deer-proof foliage plants for shaded beds alongside Heuchera. Its coppery new growth pairs beautifully with the burgundy tones of Encore Azalea or Loropetalum in a mixed shade border.
🚚 Delivery available to Lawrenceville and all of Gwinnett County — see our service area for exact timing.
Plant Specifications
| Mature Height | 1.5-2 ft |
|---|---|
| Mature Width | 1.5-2 ft |
| Sun Requirements | Part Shade to Full Shade |
| Water Needs | Moderate — consistent moisture, tolerates some drought once established |
| Bloom Season | N/A (grown for foliage) |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 8a |
| Deer Resistant | Yes |
| Pet Safe | Yes |
| Native to Georgia | No |
Planting Instructions & Regional Tips
Plant Autumn Fern in part to full shade in soil amended with compost for moisture retention; it tolerates Georgia clay better than many fern species once established. Mulch to conserve moisture, especially during the first growing season. Water regularly until established, after which it tolerates brief dry spells better than most ferns. Divide clumps in early spring if needed to control size.
Fast Facts
- New spring fronds emerge coppery-orange, mature to deep green
- Mature size: 1.5-2 ft tall and wide
- Evergreen to semi-evergreen through mild Georgia winters
- More sun tolerant and drought tolerant than most ferns
- Deer resistant — reliable for wooded properties
- Pet safe, low-maintenance shade perennial
Pairs Well With
Autumn Fern FAQs
Is Autumn Fern deer resistant?
Yes, Autumn Fern is considered deer resistant, making it one of the more reliable foliage plants for shaded Georgia gardens where deer pressure limits other perennial choices. Its coppery new growth and glossy green mature fronds provide texture and color without the browsing damage common to hostas.
Is Autumn Fern drought tolerant?
Yes, once established Autumn Fern is considered drought tolerant and needs only occasional supplemental water during Georgia's hottest, driest summer stretches. Consistent watering during the first growing season is still important to help the root system establish before it can rely on natural rainfall.