Family: Polypodiaceae
Author: (D.C.Eaton) D.H.Wagner
Bibliography: 1: 50 (1979)
Year: 1979
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Polystichum
Vegetable: False
Observations: S. British Columbia to California
Description
Fiddle dock, scientifically known as Polystichum imbricans, is an intriguing member of the Polypodiaceae family. This fern species, first documented comprehensively in 1979 by D.H. Wagner based on prior research by D.C. Eaton, is distinctive in both form and distribution.
Polystichum imbricans finds its home along the western coastline of North America, stretching from southern British Columbia through the verdant landscapes of California. This geographical range underpins its adaptability to various microclimates found within these regions.
The plant thrives in forested areas where it can often be spotted in the understory of coniferous forests, benefiting from the filtered sunlight that penetrates the canopy above. Its preference for such habitats suggests a capacity for resilience in both shaded and moderately sunny conditions, contributing to its widespread presence within its native range.
Characterized by its lush, evergreen fronds, the fiddle dock displays a robust and intricate foliage pattern. The fronds are typically dark green and glossy, showcasing a symmetrical arrangement that collectively forms a visually pleasing rosette shape. Each frond consists of numerous leaflets that overlap in a manner reminiscent of roof shingles, a feature that is hinted at in the species’ scientific name “imbricans,” which refers to this overlapping nature.
The fiddle dock’s aesthetic appeal makes it a favored choice for shade gardens and natural woodland settings where it adds texture and depth to the plantings. Gardeners appreciate its relatively low maintenance requirements and its ability to provide year-round greenery.
In the wild, Polystichum imbricans plays an essential role in the ecosystem, contributing to the biodiversity and stability of forest floors. It provides shelter for small wildlife and helps in preventing soil erosion with its dense root system. Furthermore, its presence is indicative of healthy, undisturbed forest environments, thus serving as a natural marker for ecological studies.
Overall, the fiddle dock, or Polystichum imbricans, stands out not only for its ornamental value but also for its ecological significance. Its resilience, adaptability, and evergreen nature make it a staple of the forests in its native range, as well as a prized plant for those looking to bring a piece of the forest into their garden spaces.
Common Names
Eng: narrowleaf swordfern, narrow-leaved sword fern, dwarf western sword fern, imbricate sword fern, western sword fern
Fra: polystic imbriqué
En: Fiddle dock, Narrowleaf swordfern, Narrow-leaved sword fern, Dwarf western sword fern, Imbricate sword fern, Western sword fern
Fr: Polystic imbriqué
Synonyms
- Polystichum munitum f. imbricans ((Eaton) Clute ex M.Broun)
- Polystichum munitum subsp. imbricans ((D.C.Eaton) Munz)
- Aspidium munitum var. imbricans (D.C.Eaton)
Distribution
- British Columbia (native)
- California (native)
- Oregon (native)
- Washington (native)
Additional Images
Bark
Taken Apr 9, 2022 by Maarten Vanhove (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Nov 15, 2014 by EOL − kmedina (cc-by-nc)
Taken Nov 14, 2014 by EOL − bethadamyk (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 29, 2013 by EOL − Gary Griffith (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Oct 19, 2020 by Natacha Dorès (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 28, 2022 by Rachel Walker (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken May 11, 2014 by EOL − c michael hogan (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 9, 2012 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)
Taken Dec 10, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 10, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Feb 12, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (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/2651117)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:208001-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Polystichum imbricans (D.C. Eaton) D.H. Wagner)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
