Dryopteris cristata
Crested wood fern
Evergreen fern
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The Dryopteris cristata plant species is found in Eastern N. America - Newfoundland to Saskatchewan and south to N. Carolina and Montana. It is a member of the Dryopteridaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Crested wood fern.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses
 
Latin Name:  Dryopteris cristata
Common Name:  Crested wood fern
Family:  Dryopteridaceae
Author:  (L.)A.Gray.
 
Known Hazards:  Although we have found no reports for this species, a number of ferns contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable[200]. The fresh plant contains thiaminase, an enzyme that robs the body of its vitamin B complex. In small quantities this enzyme will do no harm to people eating an adequate diet that is rich in vitamin B, though large quantities can cause severe health problems. The enzyme is destroyed by heat or thorough drying, so cooking the plant will remove the thiaminase[172]. However, there have been reports for other species of ferns suggesting that even cooked fronds can have a long term harmful effect. Some caution is therefore advised.
 
Mature Height:  0.5   Mature Width:  0.4
 
Habitat:  Damp woods[222].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses
 

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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