SPRING - The newly emerging fronds are very dark brown... but as soon as they begin to unfurl you will see shades of copper and green. Young fronds have a copper-pink color that holds until the frond matures.
SUMMER - As the fronds mature they turn a deep glossy green that holds through fall.
FALL - This fern throws new fronds throughout the season, so you may see coppery new fronds in late summer and fall.
WINTER - In my area [7A] the fronds stay erect and green through the winter.
John Mickel describes Autumn Fern as "... one of the most frequently cultivated of the Asian Dryopteris species, and one of the best."
If you have doubts about your ability to grow ferns or their ability to survive in your area, this would be the fern to run tests with. It is easy to grow as long as you follow the basic fern planting instructions and maintenance guidelines.
This fern is hardy in zones 5 through 8. The triangular, bipinnate fronds arch gracefully and reach 1.5 - 2 feet in length.
If you decide to plant a grouping leave them far enough apart to maintain their individual shapes. Groupings can be quite spectacular!
