cinnamon fern
Osmundastrum cinnamomeum
RHS AGM 1997
USDA zones3 to 9
SunHandles full sun to full shade
WaterHandles moderate to wet soil
Size2 to 5 feet tall2 to 3 feet wide
- Growth rate
- Rapid
- Habit
- Herb , fern
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- Not applicable
- Foliage color
- Brown/copper, gold/yellow, green
- Fall color
- Yes
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Cinnamon fern (Osmundastrum cinnamomeum) is a fern for shade gardens, woodland settings, rain garden spots, and accents. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full sun to full shade and average to wet soil of most types. Deer and rabbits usually look elsewhere for a meal. Spore stems rise in the center of the light green vase of fronds and turn the color of cinnamon. Birds like the fuzz on young fiddleheads for nesting material.
Pairs well with Royal fern, Wild ginger, and Sensitive fern.
Native range
Asia.