Dryopteris erythrosora

Dryopteris erythrosora

Why Buy Me?

• Easy to grow
• Great for shade
• Helps to create a woodland themed garden

Growing Conditions

Light:
Prefers partial to full shade. It thrives in dappled sunlight or in areas with light, filtered shade, such as woodland gardens or under tree canopies. While it can tolerate some morning sun, it should be protected from the hot midday or afternoon sun to avoid frond burn.

Soil:
Moist, well-drained, acidic to neutral soil. It grows best in loamy or sandy soils rich in organic matter. The soil should retain moisture but not become waterlogged. If the soil is too heavy, amending it with compost can improve drainage.

Exposure:
Best suited for sheltered locations with protection from strong winds and cold temperatures. It is hardy in the UK (RHS H7) and can tolerate temperatures as low as -15°C (5°F).

Drought Tolerance:
Low to moderate. Requires consistent moisture, particularly during dry periods. While it tolerates some dry conditions once established, regular watering is essential for healthy growth, especially during hot summer months.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Plant in spring or early autumn when the soil is moist and temperatures are mild. This gives the fern time to establish roots before the weather becomes too hot or cold.

Spacing:
Space plants 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) apart. Dryopteris erythrosora can reach a height of 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) with a similar spread, so be sure to leave enough room for the fronds to spread naturally.

Watering & Fertilization:
Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not soggy. It benefits from a slow-release, balanced fertilizer applied in early spring to encourage strong growth. Alternatively, you can use compost or organic mulch for natural nourishment.

Mulching & Pruning:
Mulch around the base with organic material like compost, leaf mould, or bark to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Remove dead or damaged fronds as needed to keep the plant looking tidy. In colder climates, you can mulch around the base to protect the crown from frost damage in winter.

Propagation:
Dryopteris erythrosora can be propagated by division in spring or early autumn. Carefully lift and separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring each section has roots and fronds. It can also be propagated by spores, though this method is slower and less reliable than division.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
New fronds emerge in early spring with a reddish-brown tint, adding a vibrant and attractive colour to your garden. As they unfurl, they transition to a fresh green colour.

Summer:
The fronds mature and turn into rich, glossy green leaves, forming a dense, textured mound. This provides an excellent ground cover or backdrop in shaded gardens.

Autumn:
The plant's fronds retain their green colour, and some varieties may develop reddish or coppery hues in cooler weather, giving the plant additional seasonal interest. The “autumn” name refers to this beautiful colour transformation.

Winter:
Dryopteris erythrosora is semi-evergreen, retaining its foliage in milder winters. In colder climates, the plant may lose its fronds in winter but will re-emerge in spring with fresh new growth.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Attracts small insects and provides shelter for beneficial bugs. While it doesn’t produce flowers, its lush foliage can support biodiversity in a garden setting, especially in shaded or woodland environments.

Garden Use:
Ideal for shaded garden beds, woodland gardens, rock gardens with shaded positions, and as ground cover beneath larger plants. It also works well in mixed borders or in containers where shade is available.

Companion Plants:
Pairs beautifully with other shade-loving plants, including Hostas, Astilbes, Heucheras, Tiarella, Brunnera, and Primulas. It contrasts well with bold-leaved plants and spring-flowering bulbs like Crocus and Snowdrops.

Transform your home and garden with the Dryopteris erythrosora , a must-have for any season. Order online now for quick and easy shopping, or drop by your local Thompson's Branch to explore it up close and get personalised recommendations.