Table of Contents
- Identification of Cinnamon Ferns
- Uses of Cinnamon Ferns
- Wildlife Value of Cinnamon Ferns
- Distribution and Habitat of Cinnamon Ferns
- Alternative Plants to Consider
- Recommended Companion Plants
- A Charming Plant Combination for Shady Gardens: Candelabra Primroses, Fern and Bugle
- A Romantic Spring Garden Idea with Peonies, Irises and Flower Bulbs
- A Long-Lasting Summer Garden Idea with Marigold and Sage
The Cinnamon Fern (Osmunda cinnamonea), also sometimes referred to as Interrupted Fern, is an essential part of the fun and rewarding world of gardening. It is a deciduous fern native to North America, and is particularly well-loved for its eye-catching coppery-red fronds.
Identification of Cinnamon Ferns
Cinnamon Ferns are easily recognizable, making them an excellent choice for beginners. They usually appear in spring or summer across areas of the eastern United States and parts of eastern Canada. Mature plants reach up to four feet in height and width, and can become easily established in moist soils, woodlands, and boggy areas. Cinnamon Ferns are characterized by triangular-shaped fronds, or leaflets. Sporangia, which are the tiny clusters of spores responsible for fertilization, cover the exterior of the leaflets.
Uses of Cinnamon Ferns
Cinnamon Ferns make a delightful addition to any garden. They are typically planted in masses to create lush, thick groundcovers, or used as an accent in larger gardens. The leaves can be used to make beautiful and unique dried arrangements, wreaths, and swags. Because of their shade tolerance and ability to thrive in wet soils, they are perfect additions to rain gardens, and are often welcome in pool, bog, or water gardens.
Wildlife Value of Cinnamon Ferns
Cinnamon Ferns are beloved for their wildlife value. They provide shelter and food for many animals, including rabbits, deer, and songbirds. The small fronds and leaflets are often eaten, and the spores are consumed by many creatures, too.
Distribution and Habitat of Cinnamon Ferns
Cinnamon Ferns can be found in most of the eastern United States and parts of eastern Canada. They prefer moist, partially shaded areas, such as woodlands, tropical gardens, and bogs. They can also be found in areas of full sun, as long as the soil remains consistently moist.
Alternative Plants to Consider
If you’re looking for an equally attractive alternative to the Cinnamon Fern, consider Royal Ferns (Osmunda regalis), Lady Ferns (Athyrium filix-femina), or Christmas Ferns (Polystichum acrostichoides). All of these ferns are highly ornamental and are similar to the Cinnamon Fern in their growth habits and preferences in terms of sun and soil.
Recommended Companion Plants
When growing Cinnamon Ferns, it’s best to combine them with other plants that have similar shade and soil requirements. Suggested companions include bleeding hearts (Dicentra spectabilis), foamflowers (Tiarella cordifolia), and Christmas rose (Helleborus niger). Keep in mind that all of these plants require consistently moist soils.
A Charming Plant Combination for Shady Gardens: Candelabra Primroses, Fern and Bugle
One way to really add charm and texture to a shady garden is to pair Cinnamon Ferns with Candelabra primroses, fern and bugle. Combining these three plants creates an enticing display of delicate foliage, fluttering blooms, and captivating colors. The evergreen fronds of the Fern and the velvety blooms of the Primroses offer a beautiful contrast to the bright orange-red fronds of the Cinnamon Fern. Combine these plants with spring-flowering bulbs for a striking garden design.
A Romantic Spring Garden Idea with Peonies, Irises and Flower Bulbs
For a romantic spring garden, consider combining Peonies, tall bearded Irises, and spring-flowering bulbs such as tulips and daffodils. Together, these plants create a beautiful spring tapestry of colors and textures. Top it off with a sprinkling of Cinnamon Ferns to bring the design together.
A Long-Lasting Summer Garden Idea with Marigold and Sage
If you’re looking for a long-lasting summer garden, try a combination of tall, bushy Marigolds and low-growing Sage. Both plants provide height and contrast, while providing a vibrancy and texture that sets them apart from traditional summer blooms. Add a splash of Cinnamon Ferns for a captivating combination.
An Easy Summer
FAQs
Where Are Cinnamon Ferns Found?
Cinnamon Ferns are native to eastern North America, specifically from Nova Scotia to Minnesota and south from Florida to Mexico. They prefer humid, shady habitats in woodlands, swamps, and along stream and river banks.
What Are the Care Requirements for Cinnamon Ferns?
Cinnamon Ferns have moderate care requirements and prefer a shady or partially sunny environment in a fertile, well-draining soil that is kept consistently moist. Low to moderate levels of fertilizer will help promote healthy growth.
What Does a Cinnamon Fern Look Like?
Cinnamon Ferns are a type of evergreen fern. They can reach up to 3 feet in height and have a spreading rhizome system with fronds that are bright green at the base and become cinnamon-colored near the top. The fronds grow in a vase-like shape and have small spores growing on the underside of them.
How Can Cinnamon Ferns Be Used in Gardening?
Cinnamon Ferns make attractive additions to garden beds and borders. They are also used as ground covers, in mass plantings, or even as container or bonsai specimens.
What Happens if a Cinnamon Fern Becomes Overly Dry?
If a Cinnamon Fern becomes overly dry, it can start to brown around the edges and the fronds may become brittle and turn yellow. To prevent this, make sure your plant has adequate moisture at all times by providing regular watering and misting of the foliage.