How to prune osmunda regalis 'purpurascens'

Late winter to early spring, before new growth emerges. Cut dead fronds down to the crown using loppers or strong scissors — the stems can be substantial on mature plants. Leave fertile fronds (the tasseled tips that produce spores) until they naturally die back if you want to observe spore dispersal.

Annually in late winter; no mid-season shaping needed. Royal fern 'Purpurascens' is a large, deciduous fern that dies back each autumn. Remove the previous year's dead fronds in late winter or early spring before new croziers push up. The old stems can be left over winter to protect the crown in colder climates, then cleared before growth resumes.

Cut dead fronds down to the crown using loppers or strong scissors — the stems can be substantial on mature plants. Leave fertile fronds (the tasseled tips that produce spores) until they naturally die back if you want to observe spore dispersal.