Onoclea sensibilis Sensitive fern (Onocleaceae)

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Onoclea sensibilis
Sensitive fern
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The Onoclea sensibilis plant species is found in N. America - east of the Rockies to N.E. Asia. It is a member of the Onocleaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Sensitive fern.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
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Latin Name:  Onoclea sensibilis
Common Name:  Sensitive fern
Family:  Onocleaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  Although we have found no reports of toxicity for this species, a number of ferns contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable[200]. Many ferns also contain 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].

Mature Height:  0.5   Mature Width:  0.5

Habitat:  Wet grassy places, open damp woodland and occasionally on open hillsides[187].

Propagation Notes: Spores - best sown as soon as they are ripe on the surface of a humus-rich sterilized soil. Keep the compost moist, preferably by putting a plastic bag over the pot. Pot on small clumps of plantlets as soon as they are large enough to handle and keep them in humid conditions until they are well established. Do not plant outside until the ferns are at least 2 years old. Division of underground rhizomes, October to March.

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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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