Wood Ferns have spores generated inside kidney shaped sori.
Autumn Fern is at its best in the spring with the foliage color changing with the season. Scarlet spores adorn undersides of the fronds. New growth emerges metallic coppery green, turns green in summer, and bronzy in the fall. Grow this native to China and Japan in partially shaded woodland areas under a tree or in small groups along the pathway to enjoy its full dramatic effect though out the season.
| Plant Types: | Fern, Perennial |
| Light: | Shade to Partial Sun |
| Height: | 1 foot 6 inches to 2 feet |
| Width: | 1 foot 3 inches to 1 foot 6 inches |
| Zones: | 5a to 9b |
| Bloom Color: | None |
| Leaf Color: | Bronze or Brown, Green, Pink, Purple, Yellow |
| Special Features: | Attractive foliage, Deer resistant, Naturalizing, Not North American native, Wetlands plant |
| Shape: | Irregular or sprawling, Spreading or horizontal |
| Fertilizer: | Miracle-Gro® Nursery Select Miracid® Water Soluble Plant Food, Composted Yard Trimmings |
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Divide clumps in spring or fall for propagation. Division entails propagating a plant by splitting it into 2 or more parts. Each part has its own root system and more than one shoot or dormant bud.
There are many species in this genus of ferns, 1-4 feet tall. Plants bear scaly rhizomes that either creep to form small clumps or are erect and form crowns. Dryopteris does best in partial shade. Grow Dryopteris among other herbaceous plants and shrubs. Less hardy plants should be raised in a cool greenhouse with a minimum temperature of 35°F (2°C). During the day, set temperatures between 41-50°F (5-10°C), and at night, keep the temperature at 36°F (2°C).
Moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter or even moist to wet soil.
Fertilization is not generally required for good plant output.
Pruning is not usually necessary.
Problems include leaf gall, rust, and fungal spots.