Combining an aggressive growing nature and great looks, this native fern is a ‘must have’ plant for the shady areas of your landscape. Big, wide fronds rise out of the ground in the early spring, soon showing off their big, widely separated leaflets that almost give this fern the look of a plant from the pea family. While fronds usually rise a considerable 2-3′ in height they can reach 5 or 6 feet in areas with constant moisture content, giving it a size and form that allows it to lord over the surrounding shade landscape. Royal fern is deciduous with fronds turning a gold to golden brown color before disappearing in the fall. Royal is an easy care winner for any tough shade landscape and will fill in these areas with grace, charm and efficiency.