Royal Fern

Royal Fern (Osmunda spectabilis)
 
Common Name: Royal Fern
Scientific Name: Osmunda spectabilis
Type: Perennial fern
Light: Partial to full shade
Moisture: Moist to wet soils
Height: 60–120 cm (2–4 ft)
Habitat: Wet meadows, streambanks, woodland edges, and shaded wetlands
 
 Description
The Royal Fern is one of Ontario’s most majestic native ferns — a plant that truly lives up to its name. Its tall, airy fronds and graceful form bring lush, textural beauty to shaded and wet landscapes. Beneath that elegance, Osmunda spectabilis is a powerhouse for soil stabilization, moisture retention, and wildlife habitat creation.
 
Ecological Benefits
Excellent for pocket wetlands and novel ecosystem design
Provides cover for amphibians and pollinators
Helps maintain soil structure and water balance in wetland zones
Contributes to biodiversity and ecosystem resilience
 
Planting Notes
Plant in moist, humus-rich soils with partial to full shade. Thrives near pond edges, rain gardens, and streambanks. Once established, it brings year-round structure and supports local wetland health.
 
🌱 Planting to Protect. Restoring to Thrive.
Available now at Origin Native Plants – Guelph, Ontario
OriginNativePlants.com