Plant · GBIF taxon 7157952
autumn fern
Dryopteris erythrosoraAlso known as Japanese Shield Fern, Copper Shield Fern
Autumn ferns bring dramatic color to shaded woodland landscapes with young fronds emerging in shades of copper, bronze, and bright rose-pink. As the season progresses, leaves mature into a polished dark green, keeping their lush structure through mild winters. Underneath the fronds, bright red spore cases line the pinnae, adding another distinctive layer of visual detail.
EvergreenShade-LovingOrnamental
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Photosynthetic (autotroph)
Predators
- Slugs
- Snails
- Herbivorous insects
ThreatsHabitat loss, extreme drought, winter cold snaps
HabitatsTemperate forests, shaded mountain slopes, woodland gardens
Life span10–20+ years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyDryopteridaceae
- SpeciesDryopteris erythrosora
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Positioning: Plant in partial to full shade with rich, moist, well-draining soil.
- Winter Care: Leave old fronds attached through winter to protect the crown from cold snaps.
- Spore Identification: Check leaf undersides in late summer for bright red spore capsules.
Evergreen Companion (c) Michael J. Papay, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Michael J. Papay · cc-by
Co-Occurring Fern 
Close Relative Carl Axel Magnus Lindman / Public domain · cc0Close Relative
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