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Royal Fern
Osmunda regalis
28.148, -82.7773
Field Notes
Description:
Osmunda regalis produces separate fertile and sterile fronds. The sterile fronds are spreading, 60–160 cm (24–63 in) tall and 30–40 cm (12–16 in) broad, bipinnate, with 7-9 pairs of pinnae up to 30 cm (12 in) long, each pinna with 7-13 pairs of pinnules 2.5-6.5 cm long and 1-2 cm broad. The fertile fronds are erect and shorter, 20-50 cm tall, usually with 2-3 pairs of sterile pinnae at the base, and 7-14 pairs of fertile pinnae above bearing the densely-clustered sporangia.
Habitat:
This specimen was observed in a County nature Preserve just off the boardwalk. It was in the wetland area that was at the time dry; but the soil was moist. It had blooms sprouting as shown in the photo.
Notes:
This is one of 4 varieties [Osmunda regalis var. spectabilis (Willdenow)]. Ref The Ferns of Florida by Gil Nelson.
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