Royal fern - Osmunda regalis (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Royal fern

Also known as: Water fern, Osmund royal, Bog onion, Common flowering fern, Kidney fern, Royal osmund fern, European royal fern

Native to Europe, Asia, and Africa, the royal fern is a common fern growing along the streams and pools under the forest. There is fertile frond divergence in royal fern which makes it a "flowering" appearance. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant.

Scientific classification

Species

Royal fern (Osmunda regalis)

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Perennial

Lifespan

30 cm to 40 cm

Spread

Green, Yellow, Red, Brown

Leaf Color

Yellow, Green, Red, Brown

Flower Color

Green, Brown

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Royal fern

Attributes of Royal fern

Growth Rate

With a moderate growth rate, royal fern flourishes in spring, summer, and fall, investing energetically in new fronds and expanding its rhizomatous base. Remarkably, growth speed diminution is observed in late fall, highlighting its adaptation to seasonal changes. Expect a visible increase in plant height and foliage during active growth seasons.

Distribution of Royal fern

Distribution Map

Royal fern has a broad native range that spans across much of Europe and parts of Northern Africa. It is naturally found in temperate and subtropical regions on these continents. Additionally, royal fern has been introduced and now thrives in various areas, including regions of Oceania and Northern Europe. Furthermore, royal fern is cultivated in suitable habitats beyond its native and introduced ranges.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Swampy areas, fens and damp woodland

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Fascination, Sincerity, Magic

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Quickly Identify Royal fern

Statuesque clumps reaching 5-6 feet (1.5-1.8 meters) in height.

Large, well-spaced leaflets resembling pea family members.

Seasonal color transformation from verdant green to yellow and brown.

Distinctive brown, tassel-like spore clusters at frond tips.

Binnate leaves with locust tree leaf-like pinnae, measuring 1-2 feet (30-60 cm).

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Care Guide for Royal fern

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Royal fern prefers consistently moist soil and high humidity, needing weekly watering for optimal health. It balances drought tolerance with moisture affinity and thrives outdoors, benefiting from the cooling effect of transpiration during its active growing season.

Fertilize: Royal fern requires balanced nutrition fertilizers for healthy growth. Fertilize monthly in spring and summer, reducing in fall and stopping in winter. Follow application guidelines to prevent root damage. Proper care enhances vigor and frond health, adjusting for growth stages is essential. Always handle fertilizers safely.

Pruning: Royal fern, known for its large fronds, should be pruned in early spring. Remove dead fronds to enhance air circulation and reduce disease risk. Trim old growth to ground level for new shoots, but avoid heavy pruning to prevent plant stress. This promotes vigor and healthy growth.

Propagation: The large, moisture-loving fern royal fern is propagated through division in early spring. Carefully divide clumps, ensuring healthy roots and fronds. Replant in rich, moist, acidic soil, maintaining consistent moisture and light shade. Mulching helps retain soil moisture for successful establishment.

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