Images Depict Mature Plants
Autumn Brilliance Fern
Dryopteris erythrosora 'Brilliance'
Autumn Brilliance Fern boasts vibrant copper-red fronds in spring that mature to lush green, adding striking color and texture to shaded gardens. This deer-resistant, low-maintenance fern thrives in partial to full shade, making it a perfect choice for woodland gardens and shady borders.
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Autumn Brilliance Fern for Sale Online
Autumn Brilliance Fern is a striking deciduous fern known for its vivid copper-red fronds that emerge in early spring, gradually maturing into a deep green. Reaching heights of 18 to 24 inches, this compact, low-maintenance fern adds color and texture to shaded gardens and woodland settings. Its rich, autumnal hues offer a stunning contrast to traditional green foliage plants, making it perfect for borders, mass plantings, or as a focal point in shady corners. The fern's delicate, arching fronds bring a touch of elegance to any landscape.
Thriving in partial to full shade, Autumn Brilliance Fern prefers moist, well-drained soil, but it is also adaptable to various soil types, including slightly acidic conditions. Hardy in USDA zones 4-8, this fern is ideal for both cool and temperate climates, offering year-round interest with its seasonal color changes. Whether planted in woodland gardens, alongside ponds or mixed into shady perennial borders, Autumn Brilliance Fern adds texture and dynamic color, brightening up areas where many plants struggle to thrive.
In addition to its visual appeal, Autumn Brilliance Fern is deer-resistant and requires minimal care once established. It is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance plant that thrives in shady areas and offers unique seasonal interest. With its vibrant spring colors and reliable growth, Autumn Brilliance Fern is a versatile addition to any landscape, providing a beautiful backdrop for other shade-loving plants or standing out as a statement plant on its own.
| Hardiness Zone: | 4-9 |
|---|---|
| Mature Height: | 18 to 24 Inches |
| Mature Width: | 18 Inches |
| Sunlight: | Full shade to part sun |
| Water Requirements: | Average |
| Selling Points: | Deer Resistant, tolerates heavy shade |
How to Care for Autumn Brilliance Fern
Be sure to read our planting instructions to ensure a healthy and happy Autumn Brilliance Fern for years to come!
How Do I Plant Autumn Brilliance Fern?
To plant Autumn Brilliance Fern, start by choosing a location with partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soil. This fern thrives in shady garden areas, such as woodland settings or shaded borders, where it can show off its vibrant copper-red fronds in early spring. Begin by digging a hole that is twice as wide and just as deep as the fern’s root ball. Place the fern in the hole, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface, and backfill with soil, gently firming it down to eliminate air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting to help the roots establish and settle in their new location. To promote healthy growth, space Autumn Brilliance Fern plants about 18 to 24 inches apart to allow for their mature spread. Applying a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the fern helps retain moisture and regulates soil temperature, which is especially important for this moisture-loving plant. During the first growing season, water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Once established, Autumn Brilliance Fern requires minimal maintenance, making it an ideal choice for low-care, shady areas in your garden. With proper planting and care, this fern will thrive and bring unique color and texture to your landscape.
How Do I Water Autumn Brilliance Fern?
To properly water Autumn Brilliance Fern, ensure the soil remains consistently moist, especially during the first growing season as the plant establishes its roots. Water deeply once or twice a week, focusing on the root zone to encourage strong growth. This fern thrives in moist, well-drained soil, so it's important not to let the soil dry out completely, especially in warmer months. Avoid overhead watering to prevent wetting the fronds, which can lead to fungal issues. Instead, water at the base of the plant, ensuring the water soaks deeply into the soil. Once established, Autumn Brilliance Fern becomes more resilient but still prefers consistently moist conditions. Check the top 2-3 inches of soil regularly and water when it feels dry to the touch. Mulching around the base of the plant helps retain moisture and reduces the need for frequent watering, especially during dry periods. Proper watering is key to maintaining the fern’s vibrant copper-red spring fronds and lush green summer growth, ensuring your Autumn Brilliance Fern stays healthy and thriving in your shaded garden.
How Should I Fertilize My Autumn Brilliance Fern?
To fertilize your Autumn Brilliance Fern, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 5-10-5 formula, in early spring before new growth appears. This will provide the necessary nutrients to promote the vibrant copper-red fronds in the spring and lush green foliage throughout the growing season. Spread the fertilizer evenly around the base of the fern, making sure to keep it a few inches away from the crown to avoid root burn. After applying, water thoroughly to help the fertilizer absorb into the soil, ensuring the nutrients reach the fern’s root system. For an organic approach, compost or well-rotted manure can be used to fertilize Autumn Brilliance Fern. Simply apply a 2-3 inch layer of compost around the base of the plant in early spring, which will slowly release nutrients into the soil as it breaks down. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of the fern's natural shape and texture. One annual feeding in spring is generally sufficient to keep Autumn Brilliance Fern healthy and vibrant, ensuring consistent color and lush growth in shaded garden areas.
How and When Should I Prune My Autumn Brilliance Fern?
Pruning your Autumn Brilliance Fern should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. At this time, remove any dead or damaged fronds from the previous season by cutting them back at the base. Pruning old fronds helps encourage fresh, healthy growth and ensures the fern produces its vibrant copper-red fronds in spring. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts and avoid damaging the crown of the plant. Regular pruning in early spring keeps the fern looking tidy and promotes stronger growth throughout the season. If needed, you can also perform light pruning during the growing season to remove any faded or discolored fronds. This will help maintain the overall appearance of the Autumn Brilliance Fern and allow more energy to be directed towards new, healthy growth. Avoid heavy pruning during late summer or fall, as this may weaken the plant before winter dormancy. By pruning at the right time, you’ll enhance the fern’s natural beauty and ensure it remains a focal point in your shaded garden, with its colorful fronds providing seasonal interest year after year.
