A large native fern with distinctive separated fertile and sterile fronds.

Native status: Native; cosmopolitan

§ Quick facts

SizeHeight 90–180 cm
LifespanPerennial; some clumps 100+ years
OrderPolypodiales
FamilyOsmundaceae

§ Encyclopedia

Osmunda regalis, or royal fern, is a species of deciduous fern, native to Europe, North Africa and West Asia, growing in woodland bogs and on the banks of streams. The species is sometimes known as flowering fern due to the appearance of its fertile fronds.

Source: Wikipedia — Osmunda regalis Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Large fern with feathery fronds; brown fertile fronds emerge in spring before green sterile fronds.

Similar species. Cinnamon Fern (related; smaller). Interrupted Fern.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. N/A — photosynthesis

Behavior. Among the largest native ferns of eastern North America. Wetland species.

§ Range

Across North America

§ Habitat

Wetlands, stream banks

§ Threats

Wetland loss.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the royal fern is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Plant in wet shade gardens.

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§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • USDA Plants Database
  • Native Plant Trust