Osmunda regalis var. spectabilis (Fr: osmonde royale d'Amérique | En: American royal fern)

American Royal Fern

Osmunda regalis var. spectabilis
Alternative names: Royal Fern, Flowering Fern
French: Osmonde royale d’Amérique

The American Royal Fern is a beautiful and bold native fern with an elegant, almost tropical look. Its large, feather-like fronds can reach impressive heights, giving it a strong architectural presence in shaded gardens, woodland edges, or wet spots near ponds and streams.

Unlike many ferns, the Royal Fern can tolerate full sun, but only if the soil stays consistently moist. It also does very well in partial to full shade, making it a versatile plant for many areas of the garden.

It prefers rich, well-drained soils and is happiest when the soil is constantly moist but not soggy. Once established, this slow-growing fern will form large, graceful clumps over time, adding texture and structure to moist, naturalized spaces.

Height & Spread: 1–2 m tall, 50–75 cm wide
Light: Full sun (only with constant moisture) to full shade
Moisture: Moist to wet soils; avoid drying out
Soil: Rich, organic, well-drained
Habitat: Moist forests, riverbanks, shaded wetlands
Ecological benefits: Provides shelter for small wildlife and adds diversity to shady plantings
Edible/Medicinal: Not edible