Bracken Fern (Pteridium aquilinum) vs Western Sword Fern (Polystichum minitum)
- Hollie
- Apr 27
- 1 min read
Bracken fern has single-stemmed, hairy sprouts. They unfurl into large, triangular fronds.
If you do pick your own bracken fiddleheads, choose those that are not fully extended. Remember, the fronds “eagle’s talons” should be clenched, not open. (You can see the clenched “eagles talon” in the video.)
*While some fiddleheads are edible, others like the Bracken Fern are considered toxic unless prepared very specifically and carefully; they contain carcinogens if consumed raw or improperly cooked.
Western Sword Fern has coiled, furry brown young fronds which are also called fiddleheads.
These have distinct “saw” markings on them.
I try to find fun and cute ways to remember plants. The Bracken fern emerge in the spring, raising their hand through the ground to ask a question. It helps me remember they come up in single fronds. The western sword fern when the baby fronds are emerging, are surrounded by their elders (the older fern) so they can grow and thrive. They are made surrounded by community.
*The information provided in the courses, workshops, and related materials is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, professional advice of any kind. You should not act or refrain from acting on the basis of any content included in the programs without seeking appropriate professional advice from a licensed professional in the relevant jurisdiction.
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