The Cinnamon fern (Osmundastrum cinnamomeum) is a species native to eastern North America, from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico. Deciduous fern sheds its fronds in the fall and grows new ones in the spring.The ferns can reach up to 4 feet tall and have a vase-shaped form with separate sterile and fertile fronds. The sterile fronds are bright green and pinnate, while the fertile fronds are shorter and brownish-red.Ferns prefer moist, acidic soils in wetlands, swamps, and along stream banks. They are also commonly grown as ornamental plants in gardens and landscapes, as they provide an attractive and unique texture.
The Cinnamon Fern Prefers Wetlands
Cinnamon ferns are native to wetlands, swamps, and other areas with consistently moist soil, so they prefer to be planted in similar conditions. They can be produced in partial to full shade but do best with at least some shade during the warmest part of the day.
Where To Plant Cinnamon Fern
If you want to plant them in your garden, choose a site with well-draining soil that stays consistently moist. They are well-suited for rain gardens or other areas that collect water and drain slowly. Avoid planting them in areas prone to drying out, which can cause the fronds to wilt and die.To plant, dig a place slightly larger than the fern's root ball and gently loosen the roots before placing it in the hole. Backfill with soil and water well. Mulching around the plant can help retain moisture and keep the roots cool. The ferns can also be propagated through spores or division.
Along with the stalks in the middle, the fern has green leaves that flow out in all directions, producing a rich, whole plant spread at the top and clustered at the bottom.
Cinnamon Fern's Growth
The fern most easily grows in swamps, bogs, or damp woodland. It produces separate fertile and sterile fronds (large, divided leaves) and can spread as much as 4 feet tall and 8 inches wide.
Cinnamon Fern's Requirements
The fertile fronds turn a cinnamon color when carrying spores. When planting this fern in your yard, grow it in a shaded area, as it thrives in deep shade or filtered sunlight. If kept in the sun, ensure the ground is constantly moist, or the plant will quickly dry and die.
Also, soil rich in organic matter is best when planting. Work plenty of compost for added moisture and richer soil. Given the proper conditions, a fern will grow rather quickly. Keep the ground moist and plant in the shade for best results.
Are you thinking of planting some? Remember the list above, but don't hesitate or be scared away. This plant is excellent as a backdrop for other flowers and provides a tall, leafy barrier between gardens or sections of the yard.
Though it does not produce cinnamon, this plant's look will give your yard the spice of personality it needs to flourish.
The ferns grow in large groups in the woods, marsh areas, and wetlands. This fern can have significant green leaves and smaller ones that turn the color of cinnamon.
