Dark Fern
General Information about Dark Fern
The hexadecimal color code #014D04 represents a very dark shade of green, often referred to as Dark Fern. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0.4% red, 29.8% green, and 1.6% blue. This color falls within the green color family, but its darkness is due to the low values of all three primary color components. The CMYK representation of #014D04 is 99% cyan, 0% magenta, 95% yellow, and 70% black. This indicates that it is a subtractive color created by absorbing most wavelengths of light and reflecting primarily green wavelengths. Dark Fern is often associated with nature, forests, and foliage, conveying a sense of tranquility and earthiness. However, its dark nature presents challenges in design, particularly in ensuring sufficient contrast for readability.
The color #014D04, also known as Dark Fern, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its low luminance value. When used as text on a white background, it fails to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA and AAA standards for contrast ratio. This means that users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness, may find it difficult or impossible to read. To improve accessibility, it's crucial to pair Dark Fern with a much lighter color for text or user interface elements. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Avoid using this color for critical information or interactive elements without sufficient contrast. Consider using color contrast analyzers to ensure compliance with accessibility standards. This will help to make your website or application more inclusive and usable for everyone.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e601b
A slightly lighter shade of green that still conveys a sense of nature and earthiness but provides better contrast against light backgrounds.
- #003300
A darker, more muted green that can be used for backgrounds or accents without overwhelming the design.
- #32CD32
A vibrant green that improves readability on light backgrounds.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Dark Fern (#014D04) can be used sparingly as an accent color for websites related to nature, sustainability, or organic products. Due to its low contrast, it's not suitable for body text but can be used for decorative elements, borders, or small icons. When used in UI design, ensure that interactive elements meet accessibility standards by providing sufficient contrast against their background. Pairing it with lighter shades of green or neutral colors like white or beige can create a harmonious and visually appealing design. Its association with nature can evoke feelings of calm and tranquility, making it appropriate for wellness or environmental websites.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Dark Fern can be used to create a calming and natural atmosphere. It can be applied as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, paired with light wood furniture and natural textures to enhance the earthy feel. Use it in moderation, as too much dark color can make a space feel smaller and darker. Consider incorporating it through decorative elements like throw pillows, curtains, or potted plants to add a touch of nature without overwhelming the room. This color works well in spaces where you want to create a relaxing and grounding environment.
Fashion Element
In fashion, Dark Fern can be used as a sophisticated and understated color for apparel and accessories. It is suitable for garments, especially during the fall and winter seasons. It pairs well with neutral colors like beige, gray, and brown, creating a subtle and elegant look. It can also be combined with brighter colors like gold or mustard yellow for a bolder statement. Use it in moderation, such as for a scarf or handbag, to add a touch of nature-inspired color to your outfit. The versatility of Dark Fern allows it to be adapted to various styles, from casual to formal.