Interrupted Fern

Osmunda claytoniana

Physical Characteristics

Osmunda claytoniana is a FERN growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist or wet soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan, Himalayas. Eastern N. America.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Stem Edible Uses: The young fronds are eaten[183]. Cooked as a vegetable[177, 272]. The centre of the clump, below ground level, is the source of a small edible pith called 'fern butter'[183].

Medicinal Uses

Vermifuge The roots are used as an adulterant for Dryopteris felix-mas in the treatment of internal worms[240].

Known Hazards

Although we have found no reports of toxicity for this species, a number of ferns contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable[200]. Many ferns also contain 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].