About Dryopteris fragrans (L.) Schott
Dryopteris fragrans (L.) Schott, commonly called the fragrant woodfern, is a circumboreal fern and the smallest species in the Dryopteris genus. In its natural habitat, it can look similar to Woodsia ilvensis, and the two species share the same growing environments: rocky areas, shady cliffs, screes, and limestone talus. This fern usually grows no taller than 25 cm (9.8 inches), and accumulates dead fronds around its base. Its common name comes from the pleasant fruity fragrance, which some compare to primrose, released by aromatic glands on the surface of its fresh fronds. Some people note that dried fronds of this species have a spicy scent. Traditionally, Native Americans used its fronds to make tea, and also used them as bedding. Like many other ferns, and especially other members of the Dryopteris genus, Dryopteris fragrans plant material may contain thiaminase, an antinutrient, as well as potentially cytotoxic compounds.
