Family: Aspleniaceae
Author: Willd.
Bibliography: Sp. Pl., ed. 4, 5: 342 (1810)
Year: 1810
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Asplenium
Vegetable: False
Observations: EC. & E. U.S.A.
Description
Mountain spleenwort, scientifically known as Asplenium montanum, is a captivating fern species found predominantly in the eastern and central regions of the United States. Described and classified by the renowned botanist Willdenow in 1810, this fern belongs to the family Aspleniaceae, which comprises various species known for their delicate and unique foliage.
Characterized by its resilience and adaptability, Mountain spleenwort typically thrives in rocky, shaded environments, where the soil is well-drained and the atmosphere retains moisture. The fronds of Asplenium montanum are notable for their intricate patterns and fine texture, often displaying a lustrous dark green hue that adds a touch of elegance to the rugged landscapes it inhabits. These fronds are pinnate, with each leaflet presenting a lanceolate shape that tapers toward the tip.
Mountain spleenwort is appreciated not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its ecological importance. The fern provides habitat and shelter for various microfauna and contributes to the stability of the soil in its rocky habitats, preventing erosion with its root system. Enthusiasts and botanists alike value this species for its ability to thrive in less accessible terrains, making it a subject of admiration and study for those interested in fern diversity and conservation.
Asplenium montanum stands as a testament to the incredible adaptability of ferns, demonstrating how life can flourish in seemingly inhospitable conditions. Whether admired in its natural setting or cultivated with care in botanical gardens, this fern encapsulates the beauty and complexity of plant life thriving at the intersections of rock and earth.
Common Names
Eng: mountain spleenwort
En: Mountain spleenwort
Synonyms
- Chamaefilix montana (Farw.)
- Asplenium montanum f. shawangunkense (T.Reeves)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Connecticut (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Indiana (native)
- Kentucky (native)
- Maryland (native)
- Masachusettes (native)
- Michigan (native)
- Missouri (native)
- New Jersey (native)
- New York (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- Ohio (native)
- Pennsylvania (native)
- Rhode I. (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- Vermont (native)
- Virginia (native)
- West Virginia (native)
Additional Images
Habit
Taken Aug 28, 2012 by EOL − Ken-ichi Ueda (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 28, 2012 by EOL − Ken-ichi Ueda (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 17, 2013 by EOL − Ken-ichi Ueda (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 6, 2014 by EOL − Ann Walter-Fromson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 28, 2012 by EOL − Ken-ichi Ueda (cc-by-nc)
Flower
Taken Aug 28, 2012 by EOL − Ken-ichi Ueda (cc-by-nc)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2650651)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:17047600-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Asplenium montanum Willd.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb