ONOCLEA SENSIBILIS / SENSITIVE FERN

ONOCLEA SENSIBILIS / SENSITIVE FERN

A Native Fern with Bold, Textured Fronds

Onoclea sensibilis, commonly known as Sensitive Fern, is a native deciduous fern valued for its lush, arching fronds and striking contrast between sterile and fertile fronds. Thriving in partial to full shade with consistently moist soils, Sensitive Fern adds texture, structure, and natural beauty to woodland gardens, shaded borders, and wetland-adjacent landscapes. Its bold foliage provides a dramatic, naturalistic presence in any shade garden.

Why Choose Sensitive Fern?

Bold Foliage: Arching, textured fronds create strong visual impact.
Shade & Moisture Loving: Ideal for woodland gardens, stream banks, and wet sites.
Low Maintenance: Hardy, long-lived, and spreads to form attractive colonies.
Ecologically Valuable: Provides cover and habitat for wildlife.

Key Features:

Foliage Color: Bright to medium green fronds, turning yellow-brown in fall.
Height and Spread: Typically grows 2–3 feet tall and 2–3 feet wide.
Hardiness: Hardy to USDA Zones 3–8.
Sunlight: Prefers partial to full shade.
Soil Requirements: Moist, rich, well-drained soils; tolerates wet conditions.

Specifications:

Plant Size: 2–3 feet tall, 2–3 feet wide.
Growth Habit: Upright to arching fronds; clump-forming fern.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 3–8.

Ideal Uses:

Woodland & Shade Gardens: Adds lush, textured greenery to shaded areas.
Borders & Naturalized Landscapes: Works well in moist, informal plantings.
Stream Banks & Wet Areas: Performs well in consistently moist soils.
Low-Maintenance Plantings: Ideal for naturalized and restoration projects.

Sensitive Fern is a dramatic and ecologically important native fern. Its bold, textured fronds, shade tolerance, and preference for moist soils make it an excellent choice for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and wetland-adjacent landscapes.