In the Arboretum at Fort Williams Park, two of our most abundant native plants are the hay-scented fern, Dennstaedtia punctilobula, and sweetfern, Comptonia peregrina, which is classified as a shrub. Both of these plants are able to tolerate full sun and hot, dry conditions. The addition of native ferns and low-growing shrubs are a great way to create a space more in tune with the natural world.
One of my personal favorites is the ostrich fern, Mattuccia struthiopteris, which prefers part sun to full shade, average moisture, and grows to a height of 36”. What I like most about the ostrich fern is that the fiddleheads on this particular fern are edible. Fiddleheads are the youngest part of the fern, the curled frond as the fern is emerging from the earth. Not all fiddleheads are edible but those of the ostrich, cinnamon and bracken fern have a wide array of health benefits as well as adding in beautiful greenery to empty spaces in your garden. Be careful not to eat just any fiddlehead in the wild and please do not pick them in the park as it is a protected area. However, if you feel comfortable with identification and have a wild source, they can make for a great casserole!
To purchase ferns, visit your local nursery and discuss your garden conditions with a specialist to decide on the appropriate type of fern. Also, some ferns such as the hay-scented fern have shallow grass-like root systems and can easily be divided and transplanted from a friend or neighbors garden.
Happy Spring and Happy Planting!
Calie Ramisch, Landscape Gardener and Volunteer Coordinator
Fort Williams Park Foundation calie.ramisch@fortwilliams.org