Species royal fern
Green leaves and  yellow stems.

royal fern

Osmunda regalis

The Royal Fern (Osmunda regalis) is an imposing and stately species of fern that is native to moist, cool woodlands and streambanks across North America. Growing between 2 and 4 feet in height, this ornamental plant is characterized by its emerald-green, bipinnate fronds which can reach up to 5 feet in length. The Royal Fern prefers slightly acidic, nutrient-rich soil and should be placed in areas shielded from strong winds. It is easy to propagate using spores, and is generally considered carefree and low maintenance. Its beautiful foliage and stature make it an excellent addition to any garden.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Spore Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 9

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers

Sun:

Filtered shade, Full sun only if soil kept moist, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Loamy Humus

Fruits:

Fruits In Summer Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Royal ferns should be watered regularly to keep them healthy and looking their best. Water should be applied deeply, but not to the point of saturation. When watering your Royal Fern, do so when the top inch or 2 of soil has dried out. In general, Royal ferns should only be watered once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions and the location of the fern. Because they are sensitive to drought, it is important to ensure that the soil is never allowed to dry out completely. If you can feel moisture in the soil, do not apply any more water.

sunlight

Royal Ferns prefer to live in partial or dappled shade, meaning they do best with bright, indirect sunlight. They should receive morning sun and dappled shade for the remainder of the day. They can adapt to full sun, although should only be given this when the temperatures are not too high. During the hottest months, it's best to provide some shade in the afternoon in order to help avoid sunburn. Too little sun, however, can result in leggy growth and mis-shapen fronds. To ensure your plant is receiving enough light, you can place it in a location where it receives the sun for 3-4 hours every day. Additionally, Royal ferns should have plenty of humidity and regular watering.

pruning

Royal ferns should be pruned in the early spring, before new growth begins, or in the late winter months when the plant is dormant. Pruning is beneficial for the health of the plant as it can reduce overcrowding, open the center of the clump, and make new growth easier. When pruning royal ferns, it is important not to take too much off the top of the plant but instead thin out the fronds by cutting them back to the main stem. This will encourage new growth and prevent overcrowding and weak plant structure. Pruning should be done gently and not too aggressively. Royal ferns generally respond well to mild pruning and can regain their original shape if given the appropriate care.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Royal ferns typically start flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and June.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Osmunda regalis typically begins in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Royal ferns typically start flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and June.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Osmunda regalis typically begins in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map