Comptonia peregrina (Sweet Fern)

Sweet-fern is restricted to well-drained sites that are rocky, sandy or sloped;they prove very durable on poor soils. The fern-like leaves lend a fuzzy, almost cuddly, feel to this plant. They do tend to colonize areas where the site allows and can make a great ground-cover on light soils. On top of all the attractive aspects that this plant has, its the scent that really sets it apart. The name says it all and it smells like heaven. Drought tolerant.

Associates: Ceanothus americanus (New Jersey Tea), Lysimachia quadriflora (Prairie Loosestrife), Lupinus perennis (Wild Lupine), Phlox pilosa (Prairie Phlox), Salix humilis (Prairie Willow)