Autumn Fern Plant Care

Dryopteris erythrosora (D.C.Eaton) Kuntze

Dryopteris erythrosora, the autumn fern or Japanese shield fern, is a species of fern in the family Dryopteridaceae, native to China South-Central, China Southeast, Japan, Korea, Nansei-shoto and Taiwan.

🌿Ferns
Water

Every 7–14 days

Light

Filtered sunlight or partial shade

Temp

60–75°F

Humidity

50–70%

What Is the Autumn Fern?

Autumn Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) belongs to the Dryopteridaceae family within the Dryopteris genus. Autumn Fern is native to China South-Central, China Southeast, Japan, Korea, Nansei-shoto and Taiwan. Autumn Fern is also known as Rose Fern.

Autumn Fern displays a fern with spreading habit growth habit, reaching up to 2 inches tall with a spread of approximately 3 inches. Autumn Fern produces non-flowering plant.

Leaf size: approximately 18 inches.

How Often Should You Water a Autumn Fern?

Dryopteris erythrosora requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Watering Frequency

Every 7–14 days

Let soil partially dry between waterings

What Light Does the Autumn Fern Need?

Autumn Fern thrives in filtered sunlight or partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 100–500 lux. Avoid placing Autumn Fern in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Light Requirement

Filtered sunlight or partial shade

100–500 lux

What Temperature and Humidity Does the Autumn Fern Prefer?

Dryopteris erythrosora grows best at temperatures between 60°F and 75°F. Autumn Fern prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Temperature

60–75°F

Humidity

50–70%

What Soil Mix Works Best for a Autumn Fern?

Rich, well-draining soil with high organic matter content. Good drainage is essential for Autumn Fern to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

How Do You Repot a Autumn Fern?

Repot every 2-3 years in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

How Do You Propagate a Autumn Fern?

Autumn Fern can be propagated through spores, division of rhizomes.

Fertilizing

Every 6 months

During the growing season

Is the Autumn Fern Toxic to Pets and Children?

Non-Toxic

Non-toxic to humans and pets

What Pests and Diseases Affect the Autumn Fern?

Autumn Fern is susceptible to aphids, scale insects, mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Autumn Fern Need?

Autumn Fern grows outdoors in USDA Zone 6a – 8b. Native to China South-Central, China Southeast, Japan, Korea, Nansei-shoto and Taiwan, Autumn Fern is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Autumn Fern as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.

Hardiness Zone

Zone 6a – 8b

Keep exploring plants

Autumn Fern is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.

It belongs to the Dryopteris genus — compare its care with other Dryopteris species on PlantoScan.

Autumn Fern tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.

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