American climbing fern (Lygodium palmatum, Syn. Fil.: 154 (1806))

Family: Schizaeaceae

Author: (Bernh.) Sw.

Bibliography: Syn. Fil.: 154 (1806)

Year: 1806

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Lygodium

Vegetable: False

Observations: E. U.S.A.

Description

The American climbing fern, known scientifically as Lygodium palmatum, is a remarkable species belonging to the Schizaeaceae family. Originating from the eastern United States, this fern showcases a unique climbing growth habit that allows it to spread and thrive in various environments, often making its presence known in the understory of hardwood forests and moist woodland areas.

Lygodium palmatum is distinguishable by its delicate, palmately lobed fronds that can extend several feet in length, demonstrating a graceful and aesthetic appeal. Unlike most ferns that grow in a more compact form, the American climbing fern sets itself apart by its vining nature, where its fronds twist and coil, climbing up structures and other plants. This ability to climb gives it a dynamic presence in its natural habitat, contributing to the biodiversity of the regions it inhabits.

Historically, Lygodium palmatum was identified and classified in the early 19th century, with its detailed documentation appearing in the work “Synopsis Filicum” in 1806. The renowned botanist Olof Swartz, credited with authoring crucial botanical explorations, further solidified the fern’s scientific understanding by incorporating the contributions of Jakob Friedrich Ehrhart, who is indicated in the nomenclature as (Bernh.) Sw.

Due to its specific habitat preferences, American climbing fern is found predominantly in well-drained soils that maintain a constant level of moisture, often flourishing in shaded to partially shaded environments. While it thrives in these conditions, the fern is also an indicator species; its presence often signals the health of the ecosystem, particularly the quality of the woodlands it occupies.

Despite its enchanting beauty, the American climbing fern can pose challenges for ecosystem management. In some areas, it may exhibit invasive tendencies, competing with native flora and potentially disrupting local plant communities. Conservationists and botanists continually monitor its spread to ensure that it maintains a balanced role within its native range.

Overall, Lygodium palmatum stands as a fascinating subject of study and admiration, not only for its botanical uniqueness and aesthetic grace but also for the historical and environmental significance it holds. It highlights the intricate balance of natural ecosystems and the importance of responsible stewardship in preserving such captivating species.

Common Names

Eng: american climbing fern, creeping fern, hartford fern, windsor fern
Swe: fingrad klätterbräken
En: American climbing fern, Hartford fern, Creeping fern, Windsor fern
Sv: Fingrad klätterbräken

Synonyms

• Gisopteris palmata (Bernh.)
• Cteisium paniculatum (Michx.)
• Hydroglossum palmatum (Willd.)
• Ramondia palmata (Bosc)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Connecticut (native)
• Delaware (native)
• Florida (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Indiana (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Maryland (native)
• Masachusettes (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• New Hampshire (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

Leaf

Taken Aug 8, 2021 by chase doane (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 7, 2014 by EOL − Evan Raskin (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 28, 2022 by Liz Anderson (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 27, 2022 by jasmine oakley (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 31, 2020 by Restrepo Carolina (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jun 16, 2013 by EOL − Arleigh Birchler (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 15, 2012 by EOL − James Shelton (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Sep 7, 2014 by EOL − Evan Raskin (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − WVU Herbarium (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jun 25, 2014 by EOL − Evan Raskin (cc-by-nc)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Bark

Taken Mar 3, 2020 by Eli Small (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − WVU Herbarium (cc-by-nc-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2650432)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:17143200-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Lygodium palmatum (Bernh.) Sw.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Vine, Forb/herb

Growth