Copper Shield Fern – Dryopteris erythrosora

Description

Scientific Name
Dryopteris erythrosora (tree-wing plant with red sori)

A semi- evergreen fern with copper and green leaves, which is hardy throughout most of the UK down to -15°C.

Fern: clump forming habit
Perennial: Semi- Evergreen

Common Name(s)
Copper Shield Fern, Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern

Origin
Native to Eastern Asia

This fern stands out as its new growth comes through coppery-pink, helping it stand out from the rest of the greenery in your garden! In sheltered spots and when winters are mild it can grow as an evergreen, though if it’s too exposed it can lose its foliage in winter. Choose this colour-changing fern to add a splash of bright green and even copper to even the shadier corners of your garden!

Months of Interest
Foliage year-round, with a splash of copper and pink amongst the green in Spring as new growth comes in

Pruning Tips
Snip dead or damaged fronds as necessary; cut back old fronds in winter.

Wildlife Value
No specific wildlife benefit known in the UK. Ferns do, however, help with soil stability in your garden, preventing erosion and adding organic material to the soil over time.

Positioning
Can cope with a variety of light levels, from full shade to full sun, and is fine in both exposed and sheltered spots. It will thrive best with some shade and some shelter, and will love damp, shady parts of your garden.

Wate
Once it’s established in your garden, this fern shouldn’t need too much extra water- keep an eye on it in drought conditions or very hot weather. If it’s in a sunny spot it will need more regular watering.

Soil
This fern loves heavy, moist soils but can grow in most different types of soil.

Food
Annual mulching (covering with compost) will help keep the soil in good condition and full of nutrients!

Pet-safe?
Yes- no toxicity reported, though it’s best for the plant and your pets if they don’t nibble too much!

Sprouts Top Tips
To make this plant as low-maintenance as possible, pick a shady, moist spot. This is a double benefit as many plants need a lot more water, so you can add interest to a neglected corner of your garden and make it easier to care for this plant all at the same time!