Cinnamon Fern

The Cinnamon Fern (Osmundastrum cinnamomeum) is a deciduous fern native to eastern North America and parts of South America, as well as some regions in Asia. It thrives in moist, wet environments with partial sun to full shade and can be found across a wide range including Alabama, Arkansas, and various states from Connecticut to Florida. Known for its edible leaves, which are often used in cooking, this fern also has ornamental value due to its distinctive cinnamon-brown fertile fronds that emerge in spring. Its light requirement is adaptable, ranging from full sun to partial shade, making it versatile for garden settings. The Cinnamon Fern grows well in various soil types—light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay)—with a pH range of 4.5–7, and can reach heights of about 0.6 meters.