Family: Polypodiaceae
Author: (Willd.) J.Sm.
Bibliography: J. Bot. (Hooker) 4: 59 (1841)
Year: 1841
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Phlebodium
Vegetable: False
Observations: Mexico to Trop. America
Description
Golden polypod, scientifically known as Phlebodium decumanum, is a remarkable and intriguing fern belonging to the family Polypodiaceae. This plant was first systematized in botanical literature by J. Bot. (Hooker) in the year 1841 and has been further classified by the botanist J. Sm., following its original identification by Willd.
The Golden polypod is native to a wide geographical range, extending from Mexico through the tropical regions of the Americas. This diverse habitat underscores the plant’s adaptability and resilience in various environmental conditions, from the lush forests of tropical America to the vibrant landscapes of Mexico.
This fern is known for its distinctive and visually appealing fronds, which often feature a golden hue that gives the plant its common name. The fronds are typically broad, leathery, and display a pattern that is both intricate and elegant. This aesthetic quality makes the Golden polypod a popular choice for ornamental purposes, adding a touch of tropical allure to gardens and indoor plant collections.
Phlebodium decumanum also holds medicinal value in traditional practices. In various cultures within its native range, different parts of the plant have been used in herbal remedies to treat a variety of ailments. This use reflects the rich ethnobotanical heritage associated with the fern.
In terms of cultivation, the Golden polypod thrives in environments that mimic its natural tropical habitat, preferring well-drained soil, moderate to high humidity, and indirect sunlight. While it can adapt to various conditions, providing an environment that closely resembles its native tropics will ensure optimal growth and health.
Overall, the Golden polypod is a fascinating plant with both visual appeal and historical significance. Whether valued for its decorative potential or its traditional medicinal uses, this fern remains a treasured component of the botanical world and an important species within the Polypodiaceae family.
Common Names
Eng: creeping golden polypody, golden polypod
En: Golden polypod, Creeping golden polypody
Synonyms
- Chrysopteris multiserialis (Fée)
- Phlebodium dictyocallis ((Fée) J.Sm.)
- Polypodium dictyocallis ((Fée) Mett.)
- Phlebodium multiseriale (T.Moore & Houlston)
- Polypodium decumanum (Willd.)
- Chrysopteris decumana ((Willd.) Fée)
- Campyloneurum decumanum ((Willd.) Fée)
- Pleopeltis decumana ((Willd.) C.Presl)
- Chrysopteris dictyocallis (Fée)
Distribution
- 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)
- Dominican Republic (native)
- Ecuador (native)
- French Guiana (native)
- Guatemala (native)
- Guyana (native)
- Honduras (native)
- Jamaica (native)
- Leeward Is. (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Paraguay (native)
- Peru (native)
- Puerto Rico (native)
- Suriname (native)
- Trinidad-Tobago (native)
- Venezuela (native)
- Windward Is. (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken May 6, 2022 by Jake Kuechenmeister (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 1, 2020 by Meu Quintal no Cerrado (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 3, 2019 by Barón Amarís Martha (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 7, 2022 by Andrzej Konstantynowicz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 3, 2019 by Barón Amarís Martha (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Jul 7, 2022 by Andrzej Konstantynowicz (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Sep 3, 2019 by Barón Amarís Martha (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.
© 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/2650477)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:17175400-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Phlebodium decumanum (Willd.) J. Sm.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
