Product Description
Osmunda regalis (3.5-inch pot)
Common Name: Royal Fern, flowering fern
- Height: 3-6 Feet
- Spread: 2-3 Feet
- Hardiness Zone: 2-10
- Part Shade to Shade
- Deciduous
- Native to Eastern North America
- Slow spreading by rhizomes
Osmunda regalis, commonly known as royal fern, is a deciduous fern that is native to Europe, Asia, and North America. It is a member of the Osmundaceae family and is closely related to the cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea).
Green, erect fronds have large leaflets, are different from other more lace-like ferns. Fertile pinnae form at the tips of fronds giving it a flowering appearance. Royal fern can reach 6' over time if constantly moist, in average conditions it will grow 2'-4' tall.
Osmunda regalis thrives in rich, moist, acidic, well-drained soil and partial to full shade. Sun exposure requires consistent moisture, as the plant is not particularly drought tolerant. A light application of fertilizer in the spring will help it to grow strong.
Bright fern for the shade garden, woodland areas, stream, and pond banks. A host plant for the comma butterfly and a decorative element in floral arrangements.
Royal ferns can be propagated by division or by spores. Division is the easiest method. To divide, simply dig up a mature plant and separate the roots into several sections. Plant the sections in new locations.