Dryopteris erythrosora

Dryopteris erythrosora

Description: A deciduous fern noted for its colourful fronds.  The large triangular-shaped heavily divided bi-pinnate leaves are coppery-red when young and slowly mature to dark green then reddish brown in winter. Very showy and a worthwhile and distinctive fern. Semi evergreen leaves and clump forming.

Uses: Good in moist woodland situations or shaded borders.  Lovely with other woodland plants and with evergreen ferns

Climate/Position:  Partial shade

Height/Spread:  Up to 1 metre x 1 metre 

Soil Requirements: Moist soils, humus rich to retain moisture

Pruning: Cut back old fronds in winter so that the shoots unfurling in spring can be seen.

Special Requirements: Plant into well prepared soil with added compost.  Mulching with additional well rotted compost in subsequest years is advantageous.