The Unfurled Fronds of the Ostrich Fern.

The Ostrich Fern is the source of the edible Fiddleheads.

Although this is out of focus you can see a deep u shaped groove in the stem of the fern. This seems to be the easiest way to identify the ferns. The fiddleheads themselves are covered with a brown parchment like paper. We spent one whole day trying to find the correct ferns. After exclaiming way too many times that we thought we had found them we finally did. There was no doubt in our mind. When you see the Ostrich Fern after looking at all the other ferns it just seems obvious. They are very distinct.

You want to collect the ferns before they start to unfurl, usually at about 2-3 inches tall. The deepest, darkest green ones with less paper covering seem to be the cat's meow although when sauteed in a little ghee with sea salt I'm not about to complain about any of them.

They mostly grow by rivers, streams, brooks and damp areas however I've seen them everywhere. In the woods, on the side of the road and even in relatively dry spots. Here is Dio, my doggy, and I standing in the river cooling off his paws.

My Boy Surrounded by Ostrich Ferns.

Dinner. These are all Ostrich Ferns. Although unfurled, little treasures of Fiddleheads are still at a premium size at the base of these large fronds.

Even if I did not find a thing it would have been a great morning regardless. I love hanging out in the woods and now that I am older it seems I need to have a reason to do it.