Also known as Bead Fern · Meadow Brake · Polypod Brake
Sensitive Fern (Onoclea sensibilis) is a robust native fern known for its upright, sterile fronds and distinct, bead-like fertile fronds.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Protect from intense afternoon sun in hot climates.
High
75% intensity
Prefers consistently moist to wet soil, tolerates standing water.
Loam, Sandy loam, Clay, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 3-10. Prefers cooler to moderate temperatures, dislikes extreme heat.
Low
25% intensity
Generally not required; benefits from a light feeding in spring if in poor soil.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Sensitive Fern thrives in consistently moist soil. It tolerates standing water and is well-suited for bog gardens or pond edges.
Water regularly, especially during dry periods, ensuring the soil never dries out completely. Avoid letting the plant sit in stagnant, unmoving water for extended periods if possible.
Pruning is primarily for aesthetic purposes and to remove dead or damaged fronds. Cut back old fronds in late fall or early spring before new growth emerges.
This helps maintain a tidy appearance and allows fresh growth to flourish unimpeded. Remove any diseased foliage promptly.
Sensitive Fern is easily propagated through division of its rhizomes in early spring. Carefully dig up established clumps and separate them, ensuring each piece has at least one bud.
Replant the divisions immediately in moist soil. It can also be propagated from spores.
Repotting is typically only necessary for container-grown plants, usually every 2-3 years. Choose a larger pot and fresh, moist potting mix. Do this in early spring before new growth begins.
Ensure good drainage within the container while maintaining consistent moisture for the plant.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Sensitive Fern (Onoclea sensibilis)
Where Sensitive Fern (Onoclea sensibilis) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Onocleaceae |
| Genus | Onoclea |
| Species | Onoclea sensibilis |
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
