Royal Fern
The Royal Fern, Osmunda regalis, is a tall, deciduous fern which usually occurs on moist bluffs and ledges and along streams (sometimes growing in the water). Royal Ferns typically grows in clumps to 2-3' tall, but with constant moisture can reach 6' in height. The broad fronds have large, well-separated pinnae (leaflets) which give this fern an almost pea-family appearance. Fronds typically turn yellow to brown in autumn. The Royal Fern is also known as the Flowering Fern and is deciduous. Spores are located in brown, tassel-like, fertile clusters at the tips of the fronds, thus giving rise to the additional common name of flowering fern for this plant. The Royal Fern is an excellent selection for wet areas along ponds, streams, water gardens or in bogs. It also grows well in shaded borders, woodland gardens, wild gardens or native plant gardens. ... more
Southern Lady Fern The Lady fern or Red Stem fern has a feathery textured frond with a red stem. It is a slow spreading fern, which will make a nice mass in a few years. The Southern Lady fern thrives in the garden, given any reasonably good soil and will make a dense stand over time. The Southern Lady Fern is also known as the Tatting Fern. Lady Ferns have leaves that turn bronze in the fall and then dark brown over the winter. It prefers to have it's feet wet. This plant is used for container plantings, borders, foundation planting, massing and groundcover. The Southern Lady fern is perennial and is deciduous. This very versatile plant goes well with evergreen shrubs and Hostas.
