Native To State: YES
Naturally Occurring: NO
Description
Polystichum acrostichoides (Christmas Fern) is a medium-sized fern species belonging to the Dryopteridaceae family. Here are some key identification characteristics:
Size and Growth: Christmas fern typically grows to heights of 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 centimeters). It has an evergreen habit, meaning it retains its fronds throughout the winter, providing greenery even in colder months.
Fronds: The fronds of Polystichum acrostichoides are lance-shaped and pinnately compound, meaning they are divided into leaflets along a central rachis (stalk). The leaflets have a leathery texture and a glossy dark green color, with a slightly serrated margin.
Sori: On the undersides of the fronds, you can find small clusters of spore-producing structures called sori. These sori are protected by small, kidney-shaped indusia.
Habitat: Christmas fern is native to eastern North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, forests, and rocky slopes. It prefers well-drained soils and partial to full shade conditions.
Distribution: The species has a broad distribution across eastern regions of North America, ranging from Canada down to parts of the southeastern United States.
Conservation: Christmas fern is not considered a threatened species, but like many ferns, its well-being is tied to the preservation of natural habitats and woodland environments.
Other Species: Polystichum acrostichoides is part of the Polystichum genus, which includes various fern species with diverse traits.
Christmas fern gets its name from the traditional use of its fronds as decorations during the holiday season. Its hardiness, attractive evergreen fronds, and adaptability to shaded areas make it a popular choice for landscaping in woodland gardens or shady landscapes.
Occurrence
Found along the fern walk