Royal fern is ideal for property owners who want their landscape to leave a lasting impression. This regal fern gets its name from its unusually large size. Royal fern plants grow up to seven feet high. The fronds of the fern tend to clump together in graceful bunches that create a pleasantly domed look. Over time, a single bush can expand to be around nine feet in width.
The Appeal of Royal Fern Leaves This fern's leaves are much broader and wider than other types of fern
The plant has a perpendicular stalk with even rows of fern fronds growing off each stalk. Individual leaves have a teardrop shape with a gently rippled texture. Royal fern leaves are a pleasant medium green with a lightly glossy texture. Leaf color can vary slightly between a soft lime green and a rich kelly green, depending on how much light they get.
The Stunning Foliage of the Royal Fern
Besides its height, this type of fern stands out from other species, like the New York, due to its unique foliage. When this plant is well cared for, it produces fertile catkins. These look like pale, golden tassels extending from the fern plant's top. They gradually deepen to a darker brown shade as the seeds ripen.
The distinctive catkins of the fern add extra texture and color to this vibrant plant. The Many Uses of Royal Fern This unique plant works well for landscapes with a lot of texture and visual interest.
Their shape and size make them work well as a border plant, while the lacey texture of the fronds makes them more intriguing than standard shrubs.
Royal Fern looks particularly well next to water features where the long stalks can drape attractively over the edge of a pond or creek.
The dense foliage also makes them useful when people need extra privacy or shade on their property.
