Named for Osmunder, the Saxon god of war, Osmunda are graceful, medium-sized to large deciduous ferns, with erect or arching fronds, bearing their spores on modified fertile stalks. Their roots were aggressively harvested for osmunda fiber, used for potting orchids. Useful in naturalistic plantings, as backdrops in perennial beds as well as in bog gardens, these patriarchs of the fern world are extremely hardy and ornamental. They love plenty of moisture and are deer resistant.