The sensitive fern, Onoclea sensibilis, is so-called because, despite being hardy, its fronds are sensitive to being hit by late frosts. However, in the UK the foliage usually emerges late in spring, when the risk of frost has mostly passed.
Onoclea sensibilis is a deciduous fern, thriving in soil that remains constantly moist and producing lush, apple-green fronds. It looks fantastic planted next to ponds or streams alongside other moisture-loving plants like candelabra primulas and rodgersias.
For best results, grow Onoclea sensibilis in full shade, partial shade or dappled shade in moist soil. It can also be grown in full sun, but only if the soil remains moist. It spreads by rhizomes, and can do so a little too successfully if grown in favourable conditions. The spore-bearing fronds can be left on to provide winter interest. The other dead fronds can be cut back in winter, though some people choose to leave them on until spring to provide some winter protection. Onoclea sensibilis has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's prestigious Award of Garden Merit (AGM).
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Onoclea and wildlife
Onoclea has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.
