Native Habitat:
Moist forests, shaded slopes, and riparian areas. Prefers sheltered microhabitats, often growing on mossy logs or tree trunks.
 
Bloom Time:
Spores produced June – August (ferns do not flower)
 
Growth Habit & Mature Size:
Perennial evergreen fern, 6–18 inches tall, with creeping rhizomes and bright green, pinnate fronds. Fronds have a sweet licorice scent when crushed.
 
Light & Soil Requirements:
Partial to full shade; thrives in moist, humus-rich soils with good drainage. Prefers consistent moisture and high humidity.
 
Willamette Valley Native Companion Plants:
Tolmiea menziesii, Polystichum munitum, Athyrium filix-femina, Adiantum pedatum, Maianthemum dilatatum.
 
Urban Garden Function:
Provides lush evergreen foliage, layered texture, and subtle fragrance to shaded urban gardens, woodland-inspired landscapes, and naturalized plantings. Works well on logs, in rain gardens, or as groundcover under trees and shrubs.
 
Wildlife Supported:
Offers shelter for insects and small invertebrates. Contributes to forest microhabitat complexity and moisture retention.
 
Historical Use:
Fronds were used by Indigenous peoples for medicinal purposes and flavoring; valued ornamentally for shaded garden groundcover and woodland plantings.