The royal fern is a plant of unparalleled mimicry with sterile fronds copying the locust tree leaves and the fertile panicies echoing astilbe seed heads. In the spring there are curious woolly caps on the fiddleheads which detach as the unfurling progresses. This form has purple-red new growth which is maintained on the stipe throughout the year. The deep purplish color is best achieved with some direct sun. The thick woody rhizomes overlap and interlace, forming a thick spongy mass. These roots are the Osmunda fiber used by orchid growers as a potting medium. Given ample root moisture the fronds will stand exposure to sun and wind with impunity.

Frond Condition: Deciduous
Mature Height: 3-6'
Origin: England
Cultural Requirements:  Some Shade, Partly Shaded, Evenly Moist, Wet *Will tolerate full sun in bog conditions*
USDA Zones: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9