Synonyms: Osmunda bipinnata, Osmundastrum cinnamomeum, Anemia bipinnata, Osmunda imbricata

Perennial. "Fiddleheads" emerge from the center of a symmetric clump and unfurl into large, erect, pinnately-compound, yellowish-green, sterile fronds (2-4’ long) which fade to yellow in autumn, later turning golden brown before dying back for winter.

The fertile fronds emerge in spring from the center of the plant, standing above the vaselike cluster of sterile fronds. Green at first, they soon turn a rich cinnamon color. The fertile fronds are covered with abundant masses of brownish sporangia and die back after shedding their spores in late summer.

Cinnamon ferns are particularly well suited for the edge of a pond or stream, or in moist borders. As an accent, a clump of cinnamon fern adds a lush, tropical look and a dramatic effect to moist, shady areas.

Slow to moderate growth rate, requires moist soil. Winter dormant, best to leave dead fronds over winter to protect the crown. Deer tend to avoid. One of the few groundcovers that will grow under walnut trees.

Fronds are killed by fire but the fern resprouts from rhizome. Has good fire tolerance, often showing vigorous rhizome growth after fire.

The young unexpanded fronds are eaten as a nibble or cooked in soups. The latent buds can be eaten in early spring, they rival chestnuts in size and flavor. Spacing 24-30". Mature height 30"-60".