Licorice Fern

(Polypodium glycyrrhiza)

Licorice Fern (Polypodium glycyrrhiza)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Polypodium glycyrrhiza, commonly known as Licorice Fern, is a deciduous perennial herb that thrives in the moist, temperate rainforests and on the misty coastal cliffs of Northwestern North America, including British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and the Aleutian Islands. It typically grows to a height and width of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters), forming lush, green clumps. Licorice Fern is notable for its once-divided, triangular fronds with finely-toothed margins and pointed leaflets, which can reach lengths of over two feet. The fronds emerge from a widely creeping, reddish-brown rhizome that has a sweet licorice flavor and is used in traditional medicine. The spores are borne in sori that form a pattern of spots on the undersides of the fronds. This fern is unique in that it does not grow its fronds from a centralized location, unlike many other fern species.

Licorice Fern is valued for its attractive foliage and adaptability as an epiphyte, growing on trees, or as a ground cover over rocks and soil. It is often used in shaded garden areas, woodland plantings, and naturalized landscapes. In cultivation, it requires part shade to full shade, consistent moisture, and well-draining soil. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it does not tolerate drought and may require supplemental watering during dry periods. Licorice Fern is also appreciated for its medicinal properties, as the rhizome has been used by indigenous peoples for its purported health benefits.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Fern
  • Height: 1-1.5 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 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

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Moist, temperate rainforests and misty coastal cliffs of Northwestern North America

Other Names

Common Names: Many-Footed Fern , Sweet Root , Polypode Réglisse , Licorice Polypody

Scientific Names: Polypodium glycyrrhiza , Polypodium vulgare f. commune , Polypodium falcatum , Polypodium vulgare var. occidentale , Polypodium occidentale , Polypodium vulgare var. commune , Polypodium vulgare subsp. occidentale , Polypodium aleuticum , Polypodium vulgare subsp. commune , Polypodium vulgare subsp. falcatum , Polypodium vulgare var. falcatum

GBIF Accepted Name: Polypodium glycyrrhiza D.C.Eaton