Royal Fern

(Osmunda regalis)

Royal Fern (Osmunda regalis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Osmunda regalis, commonly known as Royal Fern, is a deciduous perennial herb native to a variety of habitats including damp open woodlands and along streams and rivers, particularly in Europe and the Mediterranean. It can reach a height of 6 feet and a width of 2-3 feet. The sterile fronds are spreading and large, creating a lush, tropical appearance, while the fertile fronds are distinctively shorter with clusters of sporangia. Royal Fern is particularly noted for its large, bright green, arching fronds which turn yellow in autumn, adding seasonal interest to garden settings.

Royal Fern is valued for its grandeur and elegance in shaded garden areas, waterside plantings, and as a companion to other moisture-loving plants. It is adaptable to a variety of soil conditions, though it thrives in moist, humus-rich, acidic soils. It is often used in woodland gardens, bog gardens, and near ponds or streams. While it prefers partial to full shade, it can tolerate some sun if the soil remains consistently moist. The cultivar ’Cristata’ is especially popular for its unique crested fronds. Osmunda regalis is generally disease-free but can suffer from rust if grown in dry conditions. It is non-invasive and does not have aggressive roots, making it a safe choice for most garden settings.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Fern
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Water: High
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Deer Resistant, Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

native to a variety of habitats including damp open woodlands and along streams and rivers, particularly in Europe and the Mediterranean

Other Names

Common Names: Flowering Fern , Regal Fern , Königs-Rispenfarn , Königsfarn , Osmonde Royal , Fougère Royale , Osmonde Royale , Koningsvaren , Safsa , Kungsbräken , Safjabräken

Scientific Names: Osmunda regalis , Osmunda regalis var. plumieri , Osmunda spicata , Osmunda regalis var. obtusifolia , Osmunda regalis var. pumila , Osmunda obtusifolia , Osmunda regalis var. obtusiuscula , Osmunda plumieri , Osmunda leschenaultii , Aphyllocalpa regalis

GBIF Accepted Name: Osmunda regalis L.