spring in loose clusters. The 12-36 in. fertile fronds are larger than the infertile ones and only the latter are evergreen.
as the fertile fronds become relaxed at the base and fall over, although the sterile fronds remain green through the winter. (Ferns of Grey and Bruce Counties)
Distribution
USA: AL , CT , DE , GA , ID , IL , IN , IA , ME , MD , MA , MI , MN , MO , MT , NE , NH , NJ , NY , NC , ND , OH , PA , RI , TN , VT , VA , WA , WV , WI , DC
Canada: NB ,
NL ,
NS ,
ON ,
PE Native Distribution: Nf. to Sask., s. to NC, TN, n. IL, IA , ND, n.w. MT & n. ID
Native Habitat: Wet woods; swampy thickets
USDA Native Status: L48(N), CAN(N), SPM(N)
Growing Conditions
Water Use: High
Light Requirement: Sun , Part Shade , Shade
Soil Moisture: Moist
Soil pH: Acidic (pH<6.8)
CaCO3 Tolerance: High
Soil Description: Mucky, moderately acid soils.
Conditions Comments: Though this
fern prefers wet sites, it will tolerate much less moisture. Requires very little care.
