Osmunda claytoniana (interrupted fern)

Interrupted fern is a native woodland fern that is so named for the gap in the middle of the frond that is left after cinnamon-colored fertile portions wither and die off. It has a clumping habit and can form small dense colonies, spreading through its rhizomes. Likes acidic moist soil and partial sun. Easy to grow. Reaches 1–4' in height. Deer resistant.

Interrupted fern is native to eastern Asia, eastern U.S., and eastern Canada. It is found in humid zones, mostly in forests, but also in more open habitats, although rarely in bogs. 

BONAP Native Range Map (bright green indicates county native, dark green indicates state native).

Photo by Kathy Thornton