Broadleaf tonguefern (Elaphoglossum latifolium, London J. Bot. 1: 197 (1842))

Family: Polypodiaceae

Author: (Sw.) J.Sm.

Bibliography: London J. Bot. 1: 197 (1842)

Year: 1842

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Elaphoglossum

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: Mexico to Trop. America

Description

The Broadleaf Tonguefern, scientifically known as Elaphoglossum latifolium, is an intriguing species belonging to the Polypodiaceae family. This plant was first described in the London Journal of Botany in 1842 by the botanist John Smith, under the authority of Swartz.

Elaphoglossum latifolium is notable for its distinctive broad leaves that give it the common name of Broadleaf Tonguefern. The foliage is typically robust and leathery, reflecting its adaptability to various environments. This fern has earned its position in the botanical world due to its unique physiology and structure which set it apart from other members of the Polypodiaceae family.

One of the remarkable aspects of Elaphoglossum latifolium is its geographic range. It is found stretching from Mexico throughout tropical America, underlying its ability to thrive in diverse climatic and geographic conditions. The adaptability of the Broadleaf Tonguefern to different tropical habitats underscores its ecological significance and resilience.

This fern’s presence in tropical zones contributes significantly to the biodiversity and ecological complexity of these areas. It often inhabits humid forests, where it can be found at various elevations, from lowland rainforests to higher altitudes where moisture is plentiful.

Researchers and plant enthusiasts find Elaphoglossum latifolium particularly fascinating not only for its broad and lush foliage but also for its historical importance in botanical studies. Being documented as early as the mid-19th century, this fern holds a crucial place in the study and categorization of tropical flora.

Elaphoglossum latifolium serves as a vital component of the ecosystems it inhabits, providing shelter and sustenance for various wildlife. Its broad leaves can capture and retain moisture, contributing to the microclimate stability of its native habitats.

In summary, the Broadleaf Tonguefern or Elaphoglossum latifolium is a remarkable fern with broad geographic distribution across Mexico and tropical America. Its significant historical documentation and ecological importance make it a valuable subject for ongoing botanical research and conservation efforts.

Common Names

Eng: broadleaf tonguefern
En: Broadleaf tonguefern

Synonyms

• Acrostichum scalpellum (Mart.)
• Acrostichum latifolium var. crassinervum (Jenman)
• Elaphoglossum membranaceum (Hieron.)
• Acrostichum latifolium var. elongatum (Hook.)
• Elaphoglossum alismifolium (T.Moore)
• Elaphoglossum membranaceum var. columbiensis (Hieron.)
• Elaphoglossum scapellum ((Kunze) T.Moore)
• Acrostichum latifolium var. alismifolium (Krug)
• Acrostichum latifolium var. brevipes (Krug)
• Elaphoglossum variabile (A.Rojas)
• Acrostichum impressum (Fée)
• Elaphoglossum latifolium var. alismifolium (Bonap.)
• Elaphoglossum impressum (T.Moore)
• Acrostichum alismifolium (Fée)
• Elaphoglossum latifolium var. longifolium (Farw.)
• Acrostichum spruceanum (Fée)
• Elaphoglossum latifolium var. cuencanum (Hieron.)
• Acrostichum latifolium var. scalpellum (Sodiro)
• Acrostichum membranaceum (Mazé & E.Fourn. ex Hieron.)
• Acrostichum latifolium var. subsesile (Sodiro)
• Acrostichum latifolium var. tovarense (Krug)
• Acrostichum latifolium var. funckii (Krug)
• Acrostichum latifolium (Sw.)
• Acrostichum latifolium var. membranaceum (Krug)

Distribution

• Belize (native)
• Brazil West-Central (native)
• Costa Rica (native)
• Cuba (native)
• Dominican Republic (native)
• Ecuador (native)
• El Salvador (native)
• French Guiana (native)
• Guatemala (native)
• Guyana (native)
• Haiti (native)
• Honduras (native)
• Jamaica (native)
• Leeward Is. (native)
• Mexico Central (native)
• Mexico Gulf (native)
• Mexico Southeast (native)
• Mexico Southwest (native)
• Nicaragua (native)
• Panamá (native)
• Peru (native)
• Puerto Rico (native)
• Windward Is. (native)

Additional Images

© 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 Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – N. Zamora (cc-by-nc-sa)

Bark

Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – N. Zamora (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – N. Zamora (cc-by-nc-sa)

Leaf

Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – N. Zamora (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – N. Zamora (cc-by-nc-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2651054)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:17103940-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Elaphoglossum latifolium (Sw.) J. Sm.)

Specifications

Growth