sensitive fern

American  

noun

1. a common, widely distributed fern, Onoclea sensibilis, having large, triangular leaves and beadlike spikes that contain the spores.

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Etymology

Origin of sensitive fern

An Americanism dating back to 1805–15; so called from the sensitivity of its foliage to frost

Example Sentences

Several species grow in our woods, including the ubiquitous sensitive fern, the unusual Goldie’s fern and the finely textured lady fern with its attractive reddish midstem.

From New York Times • May 24, 2012

Here may also be mentioned, as having similar habit, artichokes, peppermint, spearmint, barberry, Indian hemp, bindweed, toadflax, matrimony vine, bugle-weed, ostrich fern, eagle fern, sensitive fern, coltsfoot, St. John'swort, sorrel, great willow-herb, and many more.

From Seed Dispersal by Beal, W. J. (William James)

The sensitive fern has a running rootstock, scattered fronds, and netted veins; while the ostrich fern has an upright rootstock, fronds in crowns, and free veins.

From The Fern Lover's Companion A Guide for the Northeastern States and Canada by Tilton, George Henry

But did the rambler ever find the sensitive fern, which resented the intrusive hand with all Mimosa's coyness?

From The Atlantic Monthly, Volume 05, No. 27, January, 1860 by Various

The sensitive fern is so called from its being very sensitive to frost.

From The Fern Lover's Companion A Guide for the Northeastern States and Canada by Tilton, George Henry