Comptonia peregrina 
While this plant resembles a fern, and is commonly known as Sweet fern, it is actually a low-growing deciduous shrub!
 
The “sweet” part is accurate in that it lets off a pleasing aroma when the leaves are crushed. This hardy little shrub is excellent for areas with poor soil, especially along roadsides and in hellstrips. Also excellent for erosion control on sloped land, the Sweetfern can handle full sun to part shade.
 
Interstingly, Comptonia peregrina is able to handle poor soil quality due to its ability to fix its own nitrogen, and is often one of the first plants to colonize a disturbed area.
 
Use: The young fruits can be eaten fresh. The catkins (flowers) can infuse alcohol with a unique flavor. In late spring, the leaves are tender and edible. Although there are recipes for sweet fern tea, it is described as "palatable".
 
Photos courtesy of Dan Wilder
 
Plants can be purchased in-person or online (with in-person pick-up).
All online orders will be ready for pick-up 24-72 hours after purchase. You will receive an email to let you know when your order is ready. We kindly ask that you pick-up any orders within one week of purchase.