Fiddlehead Ferns are best picked from late April to early June just as the snow begins to melt. They can be harvested from the time they emerge until the stem is about 15 cm tall, and should only be picked while still tightly coiled. Harvesting can be done by pinching and snapping the fiddleheads, or by simply cutting them with a knife. Great care should always be taken when harvesting not to damage any of the remaining fiddleheads on the "crown."

Sustainability is an important part of the harvesting process. It is recommended to take less than half of the fiddleheads on any one crown to ensure the longevity of the plant. If there are fewer than four fiddleheads on a crown, the fern is either too young or stunted, and should not be harvested. Taking more than half, or harvesting from a young or stunted crown can harm or even kill the plant.

While there are many fiddlehead varieties available, you will find two main varieties in our restaurant: the "Eastern Fern" and the "Western Fern."

Ostrich Fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris)
- The "Eastern Fern"

The Ostrich Fern grows from a completely vertical crown, favoring riverbanks and sandbars. Growing region - Great Lakes to Eastern Canada

Lady Fern (Athyrium filix-femina)
- The 'Western Fern'

The Lady Fern is a large, feathery species that favors damp, shady woodland environments. Growing region - California to Alaska