Northern oak fern (Gymnocarpium dryopteris)

Family: Cystopteridaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Gymnocarpium dryopteris is a deciduous Fern growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) or semi-shade (light woodland).

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None Known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Shady, moist woods, streambanks and wet cliffs preferring mixed coniferous forests. It is equally likely to occur in wetlands or non-wetlands. (Zone 2, Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)