Sensitive Fern (Onoclea sensibilis)

This fern gains its common name from its sensitivity to frost, dying back quickly when first touched by frost. Broad smooth leaves are deciduous and provide a nice contrast to other fern foliage and a host of shade-loving perennials such as Astilbes, Hostas, and Pulmonarias. It is tough and free running, spreading in moist soil where its 18" height makes it ideal as a shady groundcover in restoration projects that might include wet meadows, swamps, and open woods. The fiddleheads emerging from rhizomes in spring form a striking pale red mass. Somewhat sun-tolerant, but must be kept evenly moist.