Dark Fern
General Information about Dark Fern (#055209)
The hexadecimal color code #055209 represents a dark shade of green, often referred to as Dark Fern. It is composed of 2% red, 32.2% green, and 3.5% blue. In the RGB color model, it corresponds to the values (5, 82, 9). This color is prevalent in natural settings and evokes feelings of nature, growth, and tranquility. The name Dark Fern alludes to the deep green hue found in many fern species. Colors like this can create a calm and soothing environment, making them popular choices for designs seeking to promote relaxation or connection with nature. In a variety of design contexts, #055209 is usually an accent color, best paired with lighter neutrals to allow the color to pop without overwhelming the visual experience.
The color #055209, also known as Dark Fern, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value of approximately 2.7 cd/m² results in poor contrast against typical light backgrounds like white (#FFFFFF). According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text to ensure readability. Dark Fern falls far short of these recommendations, making it difficult for users to distinguish text or interface elements using this color. To improve accessibility, consider pairing Dark Fern with much lighter colors, aiming for a contrast ratio that meets or exceeds WCAG standards. Avoid using it for critical information or interactive elements without sufficient contrast. Providing alternative text descriptions for images using this color is also essential for screen reader users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e6043
A slightly lighter shade of green that offers improved visibility while maintaining a natural, earthy feel.
- #347c98
A more vibrant green that provides a stronger contrast against light backgrounds, enhancing readability and user experience.
- #333333
A neutral dark color, that can be used as a high contrast alternative on light backgrounds.
Applications
Eco-Friendly Website Design
In web design, Dark Fern can be employed to evoke a sense of nature, tranquility, and stability. It's particularly well-suited for websites related to environmental organizations, organic food brands, or eco-friendly products. Its subdued tone can create a sophisticated and trustworthy feel. It is best used as an accent, for example in buttons, rather than on large text areas, since the accessibility is rather low. Combining it with a lighter background may improve the accessibility. Furthermore, it is advisable to make use of a larger font size.
Biophilic Interior Design
In interior design, Dark Fern can be used as an accent color in spaces aiming for a natural or biophilic design aesthetic. Consider using it on walls, furniture, or textiles to bring a touch of the outdoors inside. It pairs well with other natural tones, such as browns, tans, and creams, as well as natural materials like wood and stone. It can also be used in combination with other nature inspired colors such as light blues, creating a calming atmosphere.
Autumn/Winter Fashion
In fashion, Dark Fern can be a sophisticated alternative to black or navy, particularly in autumn and winter collections. It works well for outerwear, knitwear, and accessories. It can be combined with neutral colors like beige, gray, or white for a classic look, or with brighter colors like mustard yellow or deep red for a bolder statement. This color can be used to create a calm and composed appearance. The color is not too flashy, and can therefore be used for many occasions.