Ferns Grown in Alaska

Alaska's geography is divided into three different zones; Tundra Zone, Hemlock-Spruce Forest Zone and the Spruce-Hardwood Forest Zone. Although much of the Alaskan landscape is frozen and snowy, rich vegetation can be found in the forest zones which are intertwined with forest, marshes and river outlets. Several types of fern species are common to Alaska.

Ostrich Fern

Ostrich ferns, also known as fiddle-head ferns, grow in wet forest climates. These ferns are often eaten as vegetables, with a similar flavor to asparagus. The plants are large and have curved, feathery fronds, growing from 2 to 6 feet in height. The plants grow together in clusters sometimes forming large populations. The fronds grow very long, becoming stiff and turning dark brown when mature. Ostrich ferns prefer partially shaded areas for growth.

Fragile Fern

The fragile fern, also known as the brittle bladder fern, varies from 5 to ten inches in height and has erect, bright-green fronds. The leaves are pointed and widely spaced. The fragile fern is easy to grow and spreads easily. Liming the soil will help the plants thrive. The plant prefers partial to full shade. It may grow dormant during dry spells but recovers easily.

Northern Wood Fern

The northern wood fern is a medium-sized, perennial fern that has fronds, or spreading leaves, that vary from 12 to 36 inches in diameter. The leaves are slightly broader along the base. This fern grows well in cool, moist woods and on rocky slopes.

Lady Fern

Lady ferns grow along the coastline and wet interior regions. They can grow from 1 to 3 feet in height and have feathery, erect fronds. The color can range from medium-green to yellow-green. The plant thrives in the wet forest climate. Lady ferns can tolerate full sunlight and low moisture levels better than other fern species. The plant has a fast growth rate. When growing lady ferns, keep the soil well moistened and protect the plants from strong winds.

Licorice Fern

The licorice fern has long, pointed, triangle fronds and is normally less than 20 inches in length. The leaves have a leathery texture. The root of the plant has a reddish-brown covering with an inside that resembled the sweet taste of licorice. Native American often ate these roots raw or cooked them. Its habitat is in the wet forest, often found growing on large trees.

Sources:

University of Wisconsin: Northern Wood Fern [http://www.uwgb.edu/biodiversity/herbarium/pteridophytes/dryexp01.htm]

University of WIsconsin: Family - Dryopteridaceae [http://wisplants.uwsp.edu/Freckmann/dryopteris.html]

Academic Evergreen: Licorice Fern [http://academic.evergreen.edu/projects/ican/education/TRFwebsite/fernadv.htm]

North Carolina State University: Lady Fern [http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/consumer/factsheets/hardyferns/athyrium_filix-femina.html]

University of Alaska Fairbanks: Alaska Native Plant Survey [http://www.uaf.edu/ces/ruraldevelopment/publications/plant-poster.pdf]