Pteridium aquilinum (Braken Fern)

Braken fern is cosmopolitan species in a number of habitats. World-wide, it may be the most common plant species. It is especially common on road sides and open slopes in some temperate regions. Some consider it a weed and it can impede forest regeneration in some regions. The fronds and fiddlenecks are sometimes eaten, but are poisonous unless thoroughly cooked. It can be toxic to livestock if consumed regularly for a week or more. This photo taken near Elk River, Idaho.