(image from google images)

Common name: Autumn fern

Size, form, texture: height and spread 1.5-2 ft, clumping fern

Hardiness, origin, native ecology: zone 5-8, native to eastern Asia, prefers average to medium slightly acidic medium to wet moisture soils in part to full shade. Doesn’t tolerate dry soils, require consistent moisture in rich soils.

Bud, foliage, flower and fruit characteristics: New fronds unfurl in striking autumn colours. Spreads by creeping rhizomes, triangular bipinnate fronds mature to a dark green.

Cultural and maintenance requirements and appropriate uses in the landscape: Great for moist shade gardens, or woodland gardens. Can be massed as ground cover.