Osmunda regalis

Today's the day ........................ to go way back 

We are more than a little fond of our royal fern - which is just beginning to emerge from its winter hibernation and unfurl itself.

It really is a magnificent plant - one of the largest and most imposing European ferns.  The name Osmunda  possibly derives from Osmunder,  a Saxon name for the god Thor.  Its lineage goes way back too.  It evolved in the southern continent of Gondwana sometime during the early Jurassic period - 180 million years ago.  A fossil fern was discovered in southern Sweden from this time, which was remarkably similar to those around in the present day.

Apparently, the young shoots of the fern are eaten in Korea as part of the local cuisine - and have an asparagus-like taste.  But I think we'll just leave it be - and admire it from afar ............................