Osmunda regalis Royal fern (Osmundaceae)

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Osmunda regalis
Royal fern
(1 Page of 5)

The Osmunda regalis plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Osmundaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Royal fern.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Osmunda regalis
Common Name:  Royal fern
Family:  Osmundaceae
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:  2   Mature Width:  1

Habitat:  Swampy areas, fens and damp woodland[187].

Propagation Notes: Spores - they very quickly lose their viability (within 3 days) and are best sown as soon as they are ripe on the surface of a humus-rich sterilized soil in a lightly shaded place in a greenhouse. Keep the compost moist, preferably by putting a plastic bag over the pot. Plants develop very rapidly, pot on small clumps of plantlets as soon as they are large enough to handle and keep humid until they are well established. Do not plant outside until the ferns are at least 2 years old. Cultivars usually come true to type[200]. Division of the rootstock in the dormant season. This is a very strenuous exercise due to the mass of wiry roots[200].

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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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