Interrupted Fern - Osmunda claytoniana

This is in a square pint pot.

Features: This is a rare fern and may need much attention to do well.

Its common name is from how clusters of spores form fertile sections on the green fronds then drop off, leaving an empty spot. It is a close relative of Royal and Cinnamon Fern, which have more separate fertile fronds.

This family of ferns is among the oldest and have been found in fossils from the early dinosaur age, over 200 million years ago! 

Light: Part sun to light shade. 

Soil: Medium. Likes sandy or rocky soil, moist as found in woodlands, with enough leaf matter. Needs enough humidity and protection from wind.

Height: 2 - 4 feet

Blooms: Makes its spores May to June.  Not technically a 'forb' but there aren't enough ferns for their own category.

See more information and photos at Illinois Wildflowers and Missouri Botanical Garden