Dryopteris marginalis
(L.) A. Gray
(c) Link Davis, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Link Davis
(c) Anne Parker, some rights reserved (CC BY)
What to Eat
None known.
How to Identify
An evergreen fern reaching 0.8 m tall with a spread of 0.3 m, growing at a medium rate and hardy to UK zone 4. Maintains year-round foliage and tolerates light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils with mildly acidic to neutral pH. Thrives in semi-shade woodland conditions, preferring moist soil but adapting to drier conditions.
How to Grow
Propagation: Spores can be sown at any time of year in a greenhouse. Surface sow on sterilised compost and keep moist, for example by placing the pot in a plastic bag. Germination takes 1–3 months at 20°C. Pot up small clumps when large enough to handle and grow on in a shady part of the greenhouse until ready to plant out. Divide in spring — larger clumps can go directly into permanent positions, while smaller clumps are best potted up and grown on in a cold frame until rooting well before planting out in spring.
Medicinal Uses
The root contains filicin, a substance that paralyses tapeworms and other internal parasites, making it one of the most effective known treatments for tapeworms. After use, it must be followed immediately by a non-oily purgative such as magnesium sulphate to expel the worms. An oily purge such as castor oil increases absorption of the fern root and can be dangerous. The root is harvested in autumn, can be dried for later use, and should not be stored for longer than 12 months. This remedy requires caution and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified practitioner, as the root is toxic and dosage is critical. An infusion of the root has been used to treat rheumatism, and a warm infusion held in the mouth has been used to relieve toothache.
Other Uses
None known Special Uses Food Forest
Wikipedia
Source ↗Dryopteris marginalis, vernacularly known as the marginal shield fern or marginal wood fern, is a perennial species of fern found in damp shady areas throughout eastern North America, from Texas to Minnesota and Newfoundland. It favors moderately acid to circumneutral soils in cooler areas but is fairly drought-resistant once established. In the warmer parts of its range, it is most likely to be found on north-facing non-calcareous rock faces. It is common in many altitudes throughout its range, from high ledges to rocky slopes and stream banks. Marginal wood fern's name derives from the fact that the sori are located on the margins, or edges of the leaflets.
Notes
It is used as medicine.
Names & Synonyms
References (1)
- Jackes, D. A., Edible Forest Gardens
