Sensitive Fern

Sensitive Fern Onoclea sensibilis

Sensitive Fern: TN Nursery presents the sensitive fern, Onoclea sensibilis. This plant is a deciduous fern that thrives in moist but well-drained soil and full shade to partially shaded spots in your garden. 

Besides sensitive fern, gardeners may call this species by other names, including sympathy and bead fern.  

This fern is a perennial plant native to North America. The species will thrive in any of the 48 contiguous states. While it demands little care, gardeners in the hottest and driest regions will need to water it. 

If you have a water feature of any kind in your landscaping--a pond, stream, or natural spring, sensitive fern makes an attractive choice. It loves the moisture as long as you don't flood it. 

It's also a lovely choice for a shaded border. Ococlea sensibilis may grow to almost four feet tall, so put it close to the back row! It will provide a fresh green backdrop for your low-growing flowers and plants.  

Why Is ococlea sensibilis called sensitive fern? 

The species name, sensibilis, comes from the Latin word for sensitive. Its delicate leaves die off rapidly after a frost. Sensitive ferns are tolerant of the full sun if you provide them with water. But they strongly prefer a partial shade to a full shade spot, so please consider that when planting them. 

Sensitive Ferns appearance 

Sensitive Ferns have dual fronds. Fertile fronds are narrow and show off a hue of trendy apple green, while sterile fronds are broader with a slightly duller sheen. Fertile fronds appear as beadlike clusters on a stalk.  

These leaves are usually present near the infertile fronds during the dry period of the year, but the sterile ones are not visible during that time. The fronds create a triangular shape, and each leaflet forms a pleasing oval shape. 

The stems of the sensitive fern have a light maroon undertone in spots, making the energetic green pop with color. 

Sensitive Fern Is Available At TN Nursery

Onoclea sensibilis adds a fresh burst of apple green and exciting texture to your garden. You can confidently order your sensitive fern as we ship our customers only the freshest, healthiest specimens.