Sensitive Fern (Onoclea sensibilis) Linnaeus, 1753

 

Synonyms: Calypterium sensibile, Onoclea augescens, Onoclea obtusilobata, Pterinodes sensibile, Ragiopteris obtusilobata, Riedlea sensibilis

 

 

Onoclea sensibilis is native to eastern North America (Map), and East Asia, including the Russian Far East, and Korea; introduced in western Europe. It grows in moist or soggy soils in shaded areas, but can tolerate dryer conditions and exposed sites; in swamps, wet meadows, marshes, riverside thickets, or woodlands; 0-1,500 m. Often forms colonies, and readily colonizes disturbed areas. A medium to large-sized deciduous perennial fern. The sterile fronds (30-35 cm) are bright, yellow-green, and coarsely divided; with black petioles; 5-11 pinnae per side. The fertile fronds are black at maturity, oblong, 7-8 cm; sori are clustered on the upright fertile fronds. The vernacular name implies susceptibility to even a light frost.

 

		D41182 Sensitive Fern (Onoclea sensibilis) Bruce Peninsula National Park Ontario, Canada Copyright © Michael Patrikeev All Rights Reserved
		D41185 Sensitive Fern (Onoclea sensibilis) Bruce Peninsula National Park Ontario, Canada Copyright © Michael Patrikeev All Rights Reserved
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