ALTMAN PLANTS 1 Gal. Autumn Fern (Dryopteris Erythrosora) Shrub Plant

Cool shady spots need ferns. Elegant, tropical and woodsy all at the same time, they are a must for any shade garden. Autumn fern, also known as Japanese shield fern, is a beautiful evergreen or semi-evergreen choice for a shady destination such as a woodland garden or north-side foundation bed. Mix this vase-shaped fern with broad or round-leaf shrubs and rocks and you have a wonderful shade oasis of color and texture contrast. Glossy fronds emerge copper-red in spring, maturing to deep green. The fuzzy red-brown sori (spores) on the underside of the fronds in fall or winter add to the visual drama. with its low-growing style, autumn fern can be deployed for ground-cover purposes, particularly to bring seasonal foliar color to spots in need. The plant spreads slowly over time by rhizomes. Resistant to deer, rabbits and heavy shade. Grows to 18 in. to 30 in. h and wide. Appreciates regular watering and thrives in average to rich, well-drained, evenly moist soil, but is regarded by some as drought tolerant once established. Provide filtered light. Hardy to Zone 7/0°F.

• Shade garden staple
• Dazzling spring foliage color
• Woodland ground cover
• Tree understory plant
• Borders, mass plantings, containers