sweetfern

Sweetfern: A Fragrant Addition to Your Landscape

This aromatic shrub, not actually a fern despite its name, brings a touch of the wildlands to your garden.
Native Charm and Adaptability

Native to eastern North America, this plant thrives in dry, sandy, or gravelly soils, making it a valuable choice for areas other plants struggle in. It tolerates full sun to part shade and even handles coastal conditions. In the late spring, inconspicuous yellow-green flowers give way to burr-like seed capsules, adding textural interest.
Planting Partners and Design Tips

Consider pairing with other native beauties like butterfly milkweed, purple coneflower, or blazing star for a cohesive aesthetic. Its low-growing nature makes it suitable for borders, foundations, or groundcovers. Remember, while relatively well-behaved, Can spread readily in favorable conditions, so consider planting it with barriers if needed.

Height: 2′ – 4′

Width: 4′ – 8′

Light: Full sun to part shade

Flowers: Inconspicuous yellow-green

Fruit: Burr-like seed capsules

Fall Color: Yellow-brown

Watering: Drought tolerant, occasional deep watering

Fertilizer: None needed

Pruning: Light pruning in late winter to maintain shape

With its minimal demands and fragrant foliage, Sweetfern adds a touch of nature’s charm to any garden.

Image: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Category: Shrubs and Roses. Sweetfern near me – Comptonia peregrina – full sun – part shade