Onoclea sensibilis

Onoclea sensibilis

Sensitive Fern.

Onoclea sensibilis is a deciduous fern with finely cut pale green fronds, pinkish bronze in spring, that mixes well with other perennials.

Onoclea sensibilis is a popular ornamental plant that is valued for its unique appearance and hardiness. It is often used in rock gardens, woodland gardens, and as a groundcover.

Onoclea sensibilis is a deciduous fern which thrives in a soil that remains constantly moist and producing lush, apple-green fronds. Perfect alongside ponds or streams planted with other moisture-loving plants like Candelabra primulas, Arum, Zandeschia and Rodgersias.

Grows to  a height 60cm spreading by underground rhizomes. Prefers a shaded site, and is hardy in the UK.

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Onoclea sensibilis, commonly known as sensitive fern, is a fascinating species of fern that is native to North America. This fern is known for its unique sensitivity to changes in its environment, which makes it a favorite among plant enthusiasts and scientists alike.

Onoclea sensibilis is a deciduous fern that grows up to 1 metre tall. It has long, slender fronds that are divided into smaller leaflets. These fronds are usually a light green color and can be up to 80 cm long. The leaflets are lance-shaped, and the edges of each leaflet are toothed. Onoclea sensibilis is unique among ferns in that it reproduces not only through spores but also through vegetative growth. It has creeping rhizomes that spread out and form new plants.

Onoclea sensibilis is a popular ornamental plant that is valued for its unique appearance and hardiness. It is often used in rock gardens, woodland gardens, and as a groundcover. Onoclea sensibilis is also used in wetland restoration projects because it can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.

Onoclea sensibilis is found in a wide range of habitats throughout North America, from the northeastern United States to the southern United States and as far west as Texas. It is most commonly found in damp, shady areas such as wetlands, swamps, and forests. The sensitive fern prefers moist soil and can tolerate temporary flooding.

Onoclea sensibilis has a number of uses in traditional medicine and in horticulture. The roots of this fern have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments. For example, the Cherokee people used Onoclea sensibilis to treat headaches, menstrual cramps, and rheumatism. It was also used as a poultice to soothe skin irritations.

Onoclea sensibilis is perhaps best known for its sensitivity to changes in its environment. The fronds of this fern will quickly wilt and turn brown if they are exposed to direct sunlight or if the soil becomes too dry. This sensitivity has earned Onoclea sensibilis the nickname “sensitive fern.” Despite its sensitivity, Onoclea sensibilis is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and soil conditions.

The sensitivity of Onoclea sensibilis is due to the structure of its fronds. The fronds contain cells called hydathodes that are capable of releasing water droplets. When the fronds are exposed to high levels of sunlight or dry soil, the hydathodes release water droplets in an attempt to cool the plant and prevent further water loss. This response is known as guttation.

Onoclea sensibilis is a fascinating plant that is valued for its unique appearance and sensitivity to changes in its environment. This fern can be found in a wide range of habitats throughout North America and has a number of uses in traditional medicine and horticulture. If you are interested in adding a touch of sensitivity to your garden, consider adding Onoclea sensibilis to your collection.