Royal Fern

Royal Fern is one of the most majestic native ferns in North America, growing 3–6 feet tall in moist to wet habitats across eastern and central North America. Unlike typical ferns, it produces modified, upright pinnae at the tips of some fronds that bear the spore-producing sporangia, resembling flower clusters — giving it a regal appearance. Royal Fern grows along stream banks, in swamps, and in wet woods where it can form spectacular clumps. The fibrous root masses called osmunda fiber were historically used in potting orchids.