Onoclea sensibilis
Sensitive Fern
General
Sensitive fern is a common wetland fern that grows and spreads rigorously. It has attractive foliage and can grow in a wide range of light environments. The species has existed relatively unchanged for 66 million years.
Plant Description
This species has leafy, sterile fronds that senesce after the first frost and fertile fronds with no leafy material that persist throughout the winter. The bead-like pinnae of the fertile fronds are green when they first emerge and then turn brown.
Height (ft)
1-4'
Soil moisture
Medium to Wet
Soil types
Can grow in a variety of soils types, but does best in coarse to medium, humus-rich soils
Wetland indicator
FACW
Shade tolerance
Tolerant, Full sun to Full Shade
Spread
1-4'
Anaerobic tolerance
Medium
Drought tolerance
None
Range
Eastern and central United States.
Kartesz, J.T. 2024. Floristic Synthesis of North America, Version 1.0. Biota of North America Program (BONAP) [website http://bonap.org/]
Additional Information
According to BRIT - Native American Ethnobotany Database, the Iroquois used this fern for arthritis and infection. This plant was also cooked and eaten with butter and or salt. Also used as a poultice for deeper cuts.