Fragrant Woodfern

Dryopteris fragrans

Physical Characteristics

Dryopteris fragrans is an evergreen Fern growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in leaf all year. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

N. Europe. N. Asia. N. America.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; North Wall. In. East Wall. In.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Tea The leaves are made into a tea[177, 183].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

Although we have found no reports for this species, a number of ferns contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable[200]. The fresh plant contains thiaminase, an enzyme that robs the body of its vitamin B complex. In small quantities this enzyme will do no harm to people eating an adequate diet that is rich in vitamin B, though large quantities can cause severe health problems. The enzyme is destroyed by heat or thorough drying, so cooking the plant will remove the thiaminase[172]. However, there have been reports for other species of ferns suggesting that even cooked fronds can have a long term harmful effect. Some caution is therefore advised.