Onoclea sensibilis, the sensitive fern, also known as the bead fern, is a coarse-textured, medium to large-sized deciduous perennial fern. The name comes from its sensitivity to frost, the fronds dying quickly when first touched by it.

An interesting fern with a broad, triangular overall leaf shape and deeply cut, wavy margins that are smooth (not toothed). The leaf stem is winged and the fronds are upright to arched in habit. Can provide cover for animals such as amphibians and reptiles.

Sensitive fern is a large, deciduous, herbaceous perennial fern in the spleenwort family (Aspleniaceae) that thrives in moist woodland soils. It is native to both eastern North America (including North Carolina) and eastern Asia.

Onoclea sensibilis, commonly called sensitive fern, is a large, deciduous fern native to eastern North America where it is typically found in wet woods and thickets, open swamps, marshes, and in moist soils along streams and springs. Grows up to 4' tall.

A unique addition to a moist woodland garden, Onoclea sensibilis (Sensitive Fern) is a deciduous, rhizomatous fern boasting broad, deeply pinnatifid, pale sea-green, sterile fronds, 2-4 ft. long (60-120 cm), adorned with leathery, triangular leaflets and netted veins.

Mar 6, 2023 · About sensitive fern. Onoclea sensibilis Dryopteridaceae Family. Maryland Distribution: Swamps, moist/wet meadows and floodplains throughout the state. Height: 2 feet. Blooms: Fertile fronds appear in summer and persist into winter; erect. Sun: Full sun (with ample moisture) to full shade. Soil: Adaptable but prefers moist soil; pH neutral to ...

Mar 26, 2025 · Sensitive Fern is the perfect addition to a shady native garden, or along the roadside or bog. Site Requirements: Moist, well-drained, prefers rich soil with plenty of organic matter. Flower: No flower, reproduces by spores. Bloom Period: July, August, September. Foliage: Soft green, coarse-textured, pinnatifid with triangular leaflets.