Osmundastrum cinnamomeum aka Cinnamon Fern

Taxonomy

Genus Osmundastrum Family Osmundaceae Order Osmundales Class Polypodiopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Osmundastrum cinnamomeum, commonly known as the cinnamon fern, is a leptosporangiate fern and the only living species in the Osmundastrum genus. It is native to the Americas and eastern Asia and can be found growing in swamps, bogs, and moist woodlands. In North America, it can be found from southern Labrador to eastern Mexico and the West Indies, while in South America, it occurs west to Peru and south to Paraguay. In Asia, it is present from southeastern Siberia to Vietnam. This fern has a fossil record that dates back to the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 70 million years ago, making it one of the oldest living plant species. The genus's fossil records reach back to the Triassic period. The cinnamon fern is typically found in moist, boggy ground along streams and on shaded ledges and bluffs. It can grow in clumps to a height of 2-3 feet, but with constant moisture, can reach up to 5 or 6 feet tall. The plant's common name comes from the cinnamon-colored fibers that can be found near the frond bases. These ferns' roots are a source of Osmunda fiber, which is used in the potting of orchids.

Common names

Cinnamon Fern, Buckhorn

How to care for Cinnamon Fern

Difficulty

Cinnamon Fern is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Water

Cinnamon Fern should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Cinnamon Fern loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Cinnamon Fern prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The Cinnamon Fern should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

The Cinnamon Fern is clumping in nature, with new growth originating from the soil in close proximity to the original plant.

More info:
Wikipedia

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