Fern Royal

SKU: 10210

$14.99

Royal Fern is a majestic, moisture-loving fern with tall, upright fronds and a bold, open texture. Its bright green foliage brings structure, elegance, and a natural woodland feel to shaded or partially shaded gardens.

Product Category

Royal Fern

Osmunda regalis

Fern Royal is a striking, architectural fern known for its tall, upright fronds and bold, open appearance. Unlike many ferns with finely divided foliage, the Royal Fern has broad leaflets that resemble small leaves, giving it a distinctive, almost shrub-like texture. Its vibrant green fronds can reach impressive heights, creating a lush, naturalized look perfect for woodland gardens, shade borders, and moist areas near ponds or streams. In fall, the fronds often take on subtle golden tones, adding seasonal interest.

This fern thrives in partial shade to full shade and prefers consistently moist to wet soil, making it an excellent choice for low-lying garden areas or moisture-retentive sites. Its ability to tolerate boggy conditions sets it apart from many other fern varieties. Royal Fern pairs beautifully with hostas, astilbes, Japanese iris, and other plants that enjoy similar moisture-rich environments. Its dramatic size and texture make it an eye-catching focal point, yet its low-maintenance nature keeps it accessible for gardeners of all experience levels.

Care Instructions:

Planting: Plant in partial to full shade with moist to wet, humus-rich soil. Allow 24–36 inches of space for mature growth.

Watering: Keep soil consistently moist; this fern thrives in damp or even boggy conditions.

Pruning: Remove old or tattered fronds in early spring to make room for new growth.

Pest Control: Typically pest-free; occasionally monitor for slugs or snails.

Soil Tips: Prefers rich, organic, moisture-retentive soil. Mulch generously to keep soil cool and damp.

Plant TypeFerns
NativeNative
Hardiness Zone(s)3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
ExposureFull Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Season of InterestMid Spring, Late Spring, Summer, Fall
Plant Height2' - 4' (ft), 3' - 6' (ft)
Plant Spread2' - 4' (ft)
Spacing3' - 4' (ft)
Water NeedsAverage, High
Maintenance LevelLow
Soil TypeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil PHNeutral, Acidic, Alkaline
Soil DrainageMoist but Well Drained, Poorly Drained
Bloom ColorPink
Foliage ColorGreen
CharacteristicsShowy, Plant of Merit
TolerancesClay Soil, Wet Soil, Deer, Rabbit
Garden UsesBeds and Borders, Bog Gardens, Ponds and Streams, Rain Gardens, Underplanting Roses and Shrubs

Plant Calculator


Square Planting Pattern

diagram-sq
Plants Needed:
Based on # Sq. Ft.:
Plants Centered On:

Triangular Planting Pattern

diagram-tri
Plants Needed:
Based on # Sq. Ft.:
Plants Centered On:

Note: Actual plants needed may vary slightly.