Osmunda cinnamomea

Osmunda cinnamomea, also known as the Cinnamon Fern, is a species of fern in the family Osmundaceae. It is native to the Americas and Eastern Asia, and is particularly common in eastern North America.

Description

The Osmunda cinnamomea is a deciduous fern that typically grows to a height of 1-1.5 meters. The fronds are bipinnate, meaning they are divided twice, with the leaflets also being divided. The fertile fronds are distinctive, being much narrower than the sterile fronds and turning a cinnamon color as they mature, hence the common name of the plant.

Habitat and Distribution

The Osmunda cinnamomea is found in a variety of habitats, including wet woods, swamps, and along stream banks. It is tolerant of a range of soil types, but prefers acidic, moist, and well-drained soils. The species is widely distributed across eastern North America, from Newfoundland to Florida and west to Texas. It is also found in parts of Eastern Asia, including China and Japan.

Cultivation and Uses

The Osmunda cinnamomea is popular in cultivation, both for its ornamental value and for its use in restoring wetlands. It is also used in traditional medicine in some cultures, although there is limited scientific evidence to support these uses.

Conservation Status

The Osmunda cinnamomea is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction. However, like all wild plants, it is vulnerable to habitat loss and other threats.

See Also

• Osmundaceae
• Fern
• Cultivation
• Conservation Status

References

• Flora of North America (1993). Osmunda cinnamomea. Oxford University Press.
• The Plant List (2013). Osmunda cinnamomea. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

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