Onoclea sensibilis (Fr: Onoclée sensible | En: Sensitive fern)

Sensitive Fern

Onoclea sensibilis
Alternative names: Bead Fern
French: Onoclée sensible

Sensitive Fern is a native fern with large, soft fronds that give a lush, tropical look to shaded gardens. Despite its exotic appearance, it is hardy and easy to grow in much of eastern North America. Its name, “Sensitive Fern,” refers to how quickly its fronds wilt after the first frost.

It’s an excellent plant for damp, shady spots where many other plants struggle. It spreads slowly by underground rhizomes, eventually forming broad, elegant colonies that are perfect for naturalizing shady forest edges, rain gardens, or streambanks.

Sensitive Fern prefers part to full shade, but it can tolerate full sun only if the soil stays consistently moist. Dry conditions or too much sun can scorch its delicate fronds. In ideal conditions, it offers year-round interest—especially when its bead-like fertile fronds appear in fall and persist through winter.

Height & Spread: 60–90 cm (2–3 ft) tall and wide
Light: Part shade to full shade; full sun only in very moist soils
Moisture: Moist to wet
Soil: Rich, organic, neutral to slightly acidic
Habitat: Moist woods, floodplains, edges of wetlands
Ecological benefits: Provides cover for small wildlife, improves ground moisture retention
Edible/Medicinal: Not edible