Common Bracken - Eagle Fern (Pteridium aquilinum)

Common Bracken Fern grows in the woods beside our home and I can still remember as a kid growing up seeing ferns here. The names of ferns are new to me but not their presence. This fern is native to most of the United States, Canada and also Oceania and The Caribbean Territories. Interesting that the fiddleheads of this fern are said to be edible but that's after soaking in salt water and cooking for 20 minutes and then draining. With all that said I read there were studies showing that carcinogenic compounds in this plant increase the risk of tumors in the stomach and throat. All parts are also considered poisonous and the toxicity can cause high fever, weakness, lack of coordination and convulsions.  Wow! I think I'll pass on this one ! No time for the cooking process described or the risk of this one ! This fern is also said to have been used medicinally and for other uses as a dye, soap, basketry and adhesive. I would say research well and have expert advice before gathering or using any plant as an edible or medicinally. My blog is here to pass on information I'm learning and show what I'm discovering in the area I'm living in. So much information right in my own yard and neighborhood I never knew was here. Take time and discover God's creation near you. He placed it here for a reason. 

Common Bracken - Eagle Fern (Pteridium aquilinum)

Common Bracken - Eagle Fern (Pteridium aquilinum)

Common Bracken - Eagle Fern (Pteridium aquilinum)

Common Bracken - Eagle Fern (Pteridium aquilinum)