Family: Aspleniaceae
Author: (L.) Sm.
Bibliography: Mém. Acad. Roy. Sci. (Turin) 5: 412 (1793)
Year: 1793
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Woodwardia
Vegetable: False
Observations: Macaronesia, Medit.
Description
The Chain fern, scientifically known as Woodwardia radicans, is a striking species celebrated for its elegant and distinctive appearance. Belonging to the Aspleniaceae family, this fern possesses a remarkable charm that captivates botany enthusiasts and gardeners alike.
Originating from the lush and diverse regions of Macaronesia and the Mediterranean, the Woodwardia radicans thrives in its native habitats, basking in the unique climatic conditions these areas offer. These locations provide the warmth, humidity, and shade that are ideal for the healthy growth of this fern.
The Chain fern is characterized by its long, arching fronds, which can extend impressively, creating a cascading effect reminiscent of a wooden chain. This elegant formation not only contributes to its common name but also makes it a favorite in ornamental gardening and landscaping. It prefers shady environments, often flourishing under the canopy of taller trees where it can benefit from filtered light.
An interesting aspect of the Woodwardia radicans is its propagation method. This fern spreads through stolons, or above-ground runners, which advance horizontally and give rise to new plantlets at their tips. This unique vegetative method of spreading enables it to form extensive, dense colonies, enhancing the lush green foliage in its growing environment.
The Chain fern’s historical recognition dates back to a significant documentation in 1793, as noted in the Mémoires of the Royal Academy of Science of Turin. The scientific community has acknowledged the work of the notable botanist, James Edward Smith, who described this fern species in detail, adding to its botanical importance.
In summary, Woodwardia radicans, with its distinctive fronds and robust propagation habit, remains a beloved species within its native and cultivated ranges. Its natural elegance and adaptability make it a treasured addition to both wild and managed landscapes, where it continues to flourish, enchanting all who encounter it.
Common Names
Ita: felce bulbifera
Por: feto de botâo, prígida, píjara
Spa: helecho de cumbre, pijara
Eng: rooting chainfern, chain fern
Fra: woodwardia radicant
Deu: wurzelnder kettenfarn
En: Chain fern, Rooting chainfern, European Chain Fern, Rooting Chain Fern
Co: Filetta sischese
Fr: Woodwardia radicant, Woodwardia
De: Europäischer Kettenfarn, Wurzelnder Kettenfarn, Kettenfarn
It: Felce bulbifera, Felche bulbifera
Pt: Feto de Botâo, Prígida, Píjara
Es: Helecho de Cumbre, Pijara
Synonyms
- Blechnum radicans (L.)
- Woodwardia stans (Cav. ex Sm.)
- Blechnum houttuynii (Poir.)
- Blechnum stans ((Cav. ex Sm.) Poir.)
Distribution
- Algeria (native)
- Azores (native)
- Canary Is. (native)
- Corse (native)
- Italy (native)
- Kriti (native)
- Madeira (native)
- Portugal (native)
- Sicilia (native)
- Spain (native)
- California (introduced)
- Florida (introduced)
- France (introduced)
- Great Britain (introduced)
- Ireland (introduced)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Jul 22, 2020 by Jorge (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 11, 2018 by Jon Ander Laga (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 22, 2020 by Jorge (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 5, 2017 by Rémi Knaff (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 22, 2020 by Jorge (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Other
Taken Oct 15, 2012 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Feb 15, 2001 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Mar 22, 2019 by Jean Burgun (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 7, 2018 by Tela Botanica − La Spada Arturo (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 5, 2017 by Rémi Knaff (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Aug 7, 2018 by Tela Botanica − La Spada Arturo (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 7, 2018 by Tela Botanica − La Spada Arturo (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 7, 2018 by Tela Botanica − La Spada Arturo (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 5, 2017 by Rémi Knaff (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 5, 2017 by Rémi Knaff (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken May 12, 2008 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 27, 2018 by Tela Botanica − Sylvain Piry (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 12, 2017 by bas yves (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 26, 2022 by mylifestyle88 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 14, 2009 by Tela Botanica − Mathieu MENAND (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Apr 16, 2021 by Philippe de Spoelberch (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 15, 2001 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Feb 15, 2001 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Feb 15, 2007 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)
Taken Aug 7, 2018 by Tela Botanica − La Spada Arturo (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Oct 25, 2021 by jcasado94 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 12, 2022 by Hernández Concepción Jesús Manuel (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 18, 2020 by Antonin Videau (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5275359)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:17235500-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Woodwardia radicans (L.) Sm.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb