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Tree fern – edible wild plant – how to find, identify, prepare, and other uses for the tree fern plant in a survival situation.

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Tree fern (Various genera)

Tree Fern growing in the wildTree ferns are tall trees with long, slender trunks that often have a very rough, bark-like covering. The fronds unfold and are large and multiple-pinnate (feather like).  Large, lacy leaves uncoil from the top of the trunk.  The leaves may be covered in scales with spore clusters underneath.  Many species have massive fibrous roots at the base of the tree.

Where to Find Tree fern plants

Tree fern plants are commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. They are often found in areas with high rainfall and humidity, such as rainforests, cloud forests, and wetlands. Some species of tree ferns can also be found in temperate regions, such as parts of Europe, North America, and Asia. The most common types of tree ferns are found in Australia and New Zealand, where they are an important part of the native flora.

Edible Parts of the Tree Fern plant

The young leaves (young, still uncurled fronds, sometimes called fiddleheads, are preferred) and the soft inner portion of the trunk are edible. Boil the young leaves and eat them as greens or roast to remove the Shikimic acid found inside the leaf structure. Eat the inner portion of the trunk raw or bake it.

Note: There are concerns that ferns contain carcinogens that can accumulate over time, and they have very little nutritional value.  Only eat in emergencies.

Tree Fern plant picture guide

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