Other common names:
Fern Gale French names:
Comptonie voyageuse Family: Bayberry Family (Myricaceae) Distinctive features: Shrub;Fern-like leaves, aromatic when rubbed. Leaves: Alternate; Simple; Toothed; Alternate, simple. Fern-like. Aromatic when rubbed. Height:
1-1 m (2-3 ft) Trunk:
Stems are sometimes hairy. Fruit/Seeds:
small nutlets (edible) Habitat:
Dry open places, sandy/rocky soil. Edible:
The nutlets are edible. Tea can be made from the leaves. Books: Shrubs of Ontario: 87 Native/Non-native:
Native Status:
Common in certain areas.
Photographs:
82 photographs available, of which 7 are featured on this page. SCROLL DOWN FOR PHOTOGRAPHS.
The overall plant.
Upper side of a leaf. Note the resemblance to a fern leaf, hence the name, "Sweetfern".
Underside of a leaf.
Hairy stems.
A nice tea can be made from the leaves. When making wild teas, remember that most wild teas don't get very dark when steeped. And don't boil the leaves in the water. The correct method is to bring the water to a boil, remove it from the heat, and then add the crushed leaves.
A nutlet (edible).
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