Dryopteris erythrosora ‘prolifica’- Japanese Copper Shield Fern P9

Dryopteris erythrosora 'Prolifica' – Prolific Copper Shield Fern

Dryopteris erythrosora 'Prolifica', commonly known as Prolific Copper Shield Fern or Japanese Autumn Fern, is an attractive, hardy evergreen to semi-evergreen fern prized for its delicate foliage and changing seasonal colours. In spring, elegant, finely divided fronds emerge in beautiful coppery-red, bronze and pinkish tones, gradually maturing to fresh green.

More finely textured than the species, it forms a graceful, arching clump approximately 40–60 cm high and wide. An unusual feature is its ability to occasionally produce small plantlets, or bulbils, on mature fronds.

Thriving in partial to full shade, it prefers moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil, tolerating some dry shade once established.

Ideal for woodland gardens, shaded borders, rockeries, containers and underplanting shrubs, its colourful new growth provides striking contrast with hostas and other shade-loving perennials.