This native fern, one of North America’s largest, is frequent to common in moist woods through much of the Mid-Atlantic Region. Previously known as Osmunda regalis, its unique fronds are cut into large rounded leaflets. Another common name “flowering fern” refers to its tassel-like fertile clusters.
Larval Host for the
2-6'
2-3'
SIZE
SOIL
Moist, Wet, Rich, Acidic
LIGHT
Part Shade, Shade
BENEFITS
Birds, Toads, Small Mammals
NOTES
Spreads slowly by rhizomes. Rhizomes used as fiber for potting orchids.
CHARACTERISTICS
Cover for Wildlife, Tolerates Drought, Tolerates Rabbits
Non-Flowering
Fern
This
flowers in
Royal Fern
Osmunda spectabilis
DETAIL VIEW
DESCRIPTION
This native fern, one of North America’s largest, is frequent to common in moist woods through much of the Mid-Atlantic Region. Previously known as Osmunda regalis, its unique fronds are cut into large rounded leaflets. Another common name “flowering fern” refers to its tassel-like fertile clusters.