The genus Onoclea belongs to the Onocleaceae family, and includes 1 to 5 species (The Plant List), according to sources. Onoclea sensibilis is present in Northeastern America and eastern Asia. This species was introduced and naturalized in some others areas, especially in Europe. This genus is characterized by its very dimorphic fronds, on a strongly creeping rhizome. The sterile fronds emerge in spring, pinnate and variably lobate, tender textured, light green. The fertile fronds appear late summer, the stipe carries bunches of capsules, containing sporangia, and winter persistant.