Sensitive Fern

Sensitive Fern
Onoclea sensibilis

Sensitive Fern is a rather common native plant in the wet woodlands of northern Indiana.  It prefers wet, peaty soil and shade and where these come together it flourishes.  It's a unique looking fern, with its oddly winged sterile stem.

The name Sensitive Fern comes from the fact that the sterile stem is sensitive to frost.  It dies off as soon as it gets frosty out there.  The fertile frond, which is quite different looking, lasts all winter and into the next summer.