Shade preferred as it soon dies out in sunny locations; needs moist, rich, acidic soil. Other Common Names: Virginia grape fern
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Royal Fern (Osmunda regalis) grows in partial to full shade; moist, acidic, somewhat water-retentive soil; with plenty of water it will tolerate nearly full sun. Its feathery appearance provides good texture accent; available in nursery trade.
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Southern grape fern sends up new frond in fall which then dies back in spring. Rattlesnake fern (Botrychium virginianum), which looks similar, comes up in spring and dies back in winter; its fertile frond is attached at the base of the sterile blade high above ground level. It turns a bronze color after frost unless covered by leaves.
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