Membership

Osmunda cinnamomea

This tall fern has large medium-green fronds and a stately, gracefully curved, upright habit with separate, showy cinnamon brown fertile fronds that emerge from the center of the plant. The best way to distinguish this fern from the Ostrich Fern is by the fertile fronds that appear in May and mature by mid-June. Ostrich fern has dark green, fertile fronds that ripen in July. Also, the pinnae (leaflets) of the Cinnamon fern have tufts of rusty-colored ‘wool’ at their bases.

Native Environment

Wetland, Stream Edge

Culture

Shade to partially shaded areas and good moisture are definitely preferred. Adaptable to less wet conditions, although it will appear stunted and stiff and the showy fertile fronds will be "hidden" inside the crown.

Use

The cinnamon colored fertile fronds are often used as everlastings in dried flower arrangements.

Native Environment

Wetland

Stream Edge

Height

2 to 3 feet

Spread

2 to 3 feet

Plant Type

Ferns

Color

Green

Fall Color

Sun Exposure

Medium Sun/Average Shade

Shade

Season of Interest

Mid (May - June)

Late (July - frost)

Soil Moisture

Moderate

High

Wildlife Benefit

Cover

Special Usage