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Flowering Fern Wikimedia Commons
Osmundaceae

Flowering Fern

Osmunda regalis

Ancient wisdom and hidden beauty.

Family
Osmundaceae
Genus
Osmunda
Native to
Europe, Africa, Asia, Americas
Bloom season
Spring, Summer
Type
Deciduous fern
Height
3-6 feet
Sunlight
Partial shade to full shade
Soil
Moist, acidic
Water
High
Hardiness
3-9
Lifespan
Perennial

Did you know

  • Royal fern doesn't actually flower; the fertile fronds produce spore-bearing structures that resemble flower clusters.
  • Osmunda regalis is one of the oldest fern species, with fossils dating back over 200 million years.
  • The fibrous roots called osmunda fiber are prized as a growing medium for orchids.
  • Its common name 'royal fern' comes from the majestic, crown-like fertile fronds at the top of the plant.
  • In Irish folklore, fern seeds gathered on Midsummer's Eve were believed to make a person invisible.

Color meanings

0

Fascination

1

Mystery

2

Shelter

Uses

  • Ornamental
  • Orchid cultivation substrate
  • Traditional medicine
  • Wetland restoration