Blunt-lobe woodsia (Woodsia obtusa, Rep. Bot. Dep. Surv. New York, no. 50, Assembly: 195 (1840))

Family: Aspleniaceae

Author: (Spreng.) Torr.

Bibliography: Rep. Bot. Dep. Surv. New York, no. 50, Assembly: 195 (1840)

Year: 1840

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Woodsia

Vegetable: False

Observations: E. Canada to U.S.A.

Description

Blunt-lobe woodsia, scientifically known as Woodsia obtusa, is a distinguished member of the Aspleniaceae family. This resilient fern is a native species that can be found across a wide geographical range, spanning Eastern Canada and extending through various regions of the United States.

First documented in the literature in 1840 by Sprengel and classified by Torr., its formal botanical description was published in the “Report of the Botanical Department of the Survey of New York” (no. 50, Assembly: 195). This publication highlighted the notable characteristics and natural habitat of the Blunt-lobe woodsia, contributing significantly to the botanical community’s understanding of this species.

Blunt-lobe woodsia is known for its ability to thrive in rocky, shaded environments, often found clinging to cliff faces, shaded rocky woods, and other rugged terrains. Its adaptability to various climates and soil conditions is one of its defining traits. The fern possesses finely cut fronds, which contribute to its delicate appearance, and its distinctive blunt lobes are easily identifiable features that give the plant its common name.

This fern plays a vital role in its ecosystem, providing shelter and food for various wildlife species, and contributes to the overall biodiversity of the regions it inhabits. Its presence indicates a healthy, undisturbed natural environment, making it an essential subject for conservation efforts.

In conclusion, Woodsia obtusa, or Blunt-lobe woodsia, is a scientifically renowned fern with a rich documentation history and a significant ecological role. Its widespread presence from Eastern Canada to the United States underscores its adaptability and importance in various natural habitats.

Common Names

En: Blunt-lobe woodsia, Bluntlobe cliff fern, Blunt woodsia, Blunt-lobed woodsia, Blunt-lobed cliff fern, Large woodsia, Obtuse woodsia
Fr: Woodsie à lobes arrondis, Woodsie obtuse

Synonyms

• Aspidium obtusum ((Spreng.) Sw.)
• Cystopteris obtusa ((Spreng.) C.Presl)
• Woodsiopsis obtusa ((Spreng.) Shmakov)
• Aspidium pennsylvanicum (F.Dietr.)
• Physematium obtusum ((Spreng.) Hook.)
• Polypodium obtusum (Spreng.)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Arkansas (native)
• Connecticut (native)
• Delaware (native)
• District of Columbia (native)
• Florida (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Indiana (native)
• Iowa (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Maine (native)
• Maryland (native)
• Masachusettes (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• Missouri (native)
• Nebraska (native)
• New Hampshire (native)
• New Jersey (native)
• New York (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• Ohio (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Pennsylvania (native)
• Québec (native)
• Rhode I. (native)
• South Carolina (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Texas (native)
• Vermont (native)
• Virginia (native)
• West Virginia (native)
• Wisconsin (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Jan 7, 2021 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Oct 30, 2016 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Oct 30, 2016 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Oct 30, 2016 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 30, 2016 by Yoan MARTIN (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.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:17234990-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Woodsia obtusa Torr.)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5275081)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth