Fragrant Fern
Fragrant Fern, Dyropteris fragrans, has limited range in the Northeast, thus rare.
The pictures below are from a guided tour sponsored by the New England Botanical Society, lead by Dr. Scott Bailey.
The tour was conducted on Rattlesnake Mountain, part of the White Mountain National Forest, in Rumney, NH on September 6, 2025. 8 individuals participated.
The environment Dr. Bailey has found D. fragrans in this location and others has been growing in cracks on steep cliffs with an overhang. He has been studying this population, and others, for over 20 years.
A paper has been published on D. fragrans, its distribution and genetic diversity.
Genetic and Phenotypic Diversity of Dryopteris Fragrans.
Dr. Bailey has also published a paper (paywall) on D. fragrans.
Notice the 'beards' which are previous year's growth. It is thought to provide a nutrient source. Other species of Dryopteris that grow on soil also have layers of previous growth.
The sporangia are numerous.
A rare fern to see in New England.