Family: Dennstaedtiaceae
Author: (Sw.) T.Moore
Bibliography: (1857)
Year: 1857
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Dennstaedtia
Vegetable: False
Observations: Trop. & Subtrop. America
Description
The Tropical Hayscented Fern, scientifically named Dennstaedtia cicutaria, is a remarkable member of the Dennstaedtiaceae family. First documented in 1857 by renowned botanist Thomas Moore, its presence is predominantly observed in tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas.
This elegant fern is known for its delicate fronds that exude a distinct hay-like aroma, especially when crushed, which is where it derives its common name. Its finely divided leaves lend an airy, light appearance, making it a captivating addition to any garden or natural landscape.
Growing in humid and warm environments, the Tropical Hayscented Fern thrives in shaded to partially shaded areas, preferring moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. Its adaptability to various light conditions and soil types makes it a versatile plant for both natural habitats and cultivated gardens.
Apart from its aesthetic appeal, Dennstaedtia cicutaria plays a crucial role in its ecosystem. It provides cover and habitat for various small wildlife and contributes to the rich biodiversity of the understorey in tropical and subtropical forests. Additionally, the presence of this fern indicates a healthy, well-balanced environment, often acting as a bioindicator for ecologists and conservationists.
Gardening enthusiasts prize the Tropical Hayscented Fern for its relatively low maintenance needs and its ability to add a touch of the tropics to temperate gardens. It pairs beautifully with other shade-loving plants, offering a lush, green backdrop year-round.
In summary, the Tropical Hayscented Fern, with its distinctive fragrance and graceful appearance, is not merely a botanical curiosity but a valuable ecological asset and a favorite among gardeners. Whether in the wild or in cultivation, Dennstaedtia cicutaria continues to enchant and play an essential role in the floral kingdom.
Common Names
Eng: tropical hayscented fern
En: Tropical hayscented fern
Synonyms
- Dennstaedtia cicutaria var. erosa ((C.Presl) T.Moore)
- Patania erosa (C.Presl)
- Dicksonia rubiginosa (Kaulf.)
- Sitobolium rubiginosum (J.Sm.)
- Dennstaedtia rubiginosa ((Kaulf.) T.Moore)
- Dicksonia angustidens (C.Presl)
- Dennstaedtia decomposita (Christ)
- Dicksonia decomposita (Christ)
- Dicksonia umbrosa (Liebm.)
- Sitobolium cicutarium (J.Sm.)
- Dicksonia cicutaria var. remota (Fée)
- Dicksonia siifolia (Kunze)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Argentina Northeast (native)
- Argentina Northwest (native)
- Belize (native)
- Bolivia (native)
- Brazil North (native)
- Brazil Northeast (native)
- Brazil South (native)
- Brazil Southeast (native)
- Brazil West-Central (native)
- Colombia (native)
- Costa Rica (native)
- Cuba (native)
- Dominican Republic (native)
- Ecuador (native)
- Haiti (native)
- Honduras (native)
- Jamaica (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Nicaragua (native)
- Panamá (native)
- Paraguay (native)
- Peru (native)
- Puerto Rico (native)
- Venezuela (native)
Additional Images
Habit
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – J. González (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jun 9, 2011 by OTS – Chaves-Fallas, José Miguel (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jul 21, 2022 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – J. González (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – J. González (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jun 4, 2022 by Birgitta Tittel (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 21, 2022 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 21, 2022 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – O. Vargas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – J. González (cc-by-nc-sa)
Bark
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – J. González (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – J. González (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jun 9, 2011 by OTS – Chaves-Fallas, José Miguel (cc-by-nc-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.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2650784)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:17081410-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Dennstaedtia cicutaria (Sw.) T. Moore)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb