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Royal Fern

Scientific name

Osmunda regalis

Description

Royal Fern is a perennial fern species that typically grows less than 1 m in height. This plant may also be known by the common name Flowering Fern. Fiddleheads appear from the base of the plant and unfurl into green, arching, pinnately compound leaves. The leaves of this fern are well separated, broader, and more rounded than other ferns, giving it the appearance of a pea plant. Erect, spore-bearing fronds grow out of the center of the leaves in the early spring and turn brown in the fall. The fronds of this fern have a flower like appearance.

Planting conditions

Royal Fern grows best in moist or wet conditions with full or partial shade. It prefers organically rich, humus or loam soil types. It is tolerant to heavy shade, acidic soil, and periodically flooded areas. This plant can be naturally found in moist forests, around marshes, bogs, and along shaded stream or lake shorelines.

Details

  • Plant height:
    • Max 1.5m
    • Max 2m
    • Max 3m
    • Any
  • Moisture level:
    • Moist
    • Wet
    • Flood Tolerant
  • Light conditions:
    • Partial sun
    • Shade
  • Soil type:
    • Loamy
    • Humus
  • pH:
    • Acidic
    • Normal
  • Depth:
    • Potted
  • Eco Zone:
    • 3b
    • 4a
    • 4b
    • 5a
    • 5b
    • 6a
    • 6b
    • 7a
  • Plant type:
    • Fern
  • Height:
    • 1 m
  • Spread:
    • 1 m