Sensitive Fern (Onoclea sensibilis) brings bold, bright green fronds to wet woods, pond edges, and rain-garden pockets. Its sterile fronds have a distinctive netted-vein look, and late in the season the plant produces shorter, beadlike fertile fronds that add texture into fall.

You will get the best performance in organically rich soil that stays consistently moist. Plant it in part shade to full shade for easiest care, but it can handle more sun if the soil never dries out. In drier sites the fronds can look tired and may scorch during hot weather.

At maturity this fern typically reaches about 36 to 48 inches tall and can spread 36 to 48 inches as it creeps outward on rhizomes. Use it as a naturalizing ground cover where it has room, or mass it along stream banks and low spots. In ideal conditions it can spread steadily, so thin or edge as needed.

This is a deciduous fern that goes dormant after frost. Keep the soil evenly moist through the growing season, especially during heat, and mulch with leaf mold or compost to maintain moisture. Pair it with other moisture-loving shade plants and native woodland companions for a layered, natural look.

Specifications

• Cold hardiness zone: 4-8 (-30 degrees F) - Contact your local extension to confirm hardiness if you are in a fringe zone (we cannot guarantee hardiness in fringe zones)
• Light: Full sun   Part sun   Shade
• Mature height: 36-48"
• Spread: 36-48"
• Tolerant of: Deer, Wet Conditions, Rabbits
• Spreads by creeping: Yes
• Native to the U.S.: Yes

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Care