Maidenhair-creeper (Lygodium flexuosum, J. Bot. (Schrader) 1800(2): 106 (1801))

Family: Schizaeaceae

Author: (L.) Sw.

Bibliography: J. Bot. (Schrader) 1800(2): 106 (1801)

Year: 1801

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Lygodium

Vegetable: False

Observations: Trop. & Subtrop. Asia to N. Australia

Description

The Maidenhair-creeper, known scientifically as Lygodium flexuosum, is a fascinating and unique fern species. This plant is a remarkable member of the Schizaeaceae family and stands out due to its distinct climbing habit, which differentiates it from many other ferns.

The Maidenhair-creeper exhibits twining fronds that can weave their way up through the surrounding vegetation. This makes it an excellent choice for adding vertical interest in garden settings or for natural climbing displays in conservatories. The light green, feathery fronds of this fern mimic the delicate appearance of maidenhair ferns, with finely divided leaflets adding to its ornamental value.

Lygodium flexuosum thrives in tropical and subtropical regions, where it enjoys the warm and humid environments. The plant can be found stretching from tropical and subtropical Asia all the way to Northern Australia. This wide distribution indicates its adaptability to different climatic conditions within these regions.

The species was first described in the early 19th century, with its detailed classification published by Swartz in 1801, featured in the “Journal of Botany” by Schrader. The early documentation of this plant highlights its long-standing recognition and the importance of botanical study in understanding plant diversity around the world.

In the wild, the Maidenhair-creeper often establishes itself in forests, along stream banks, and in other moist habitats where it can receive ample shade and protection from direct sunlight. Gardeners looking to cultivate this fern should try to mimic these natural conditions to ensure the plant’s health and vitality. A consistently moist, well-drained soil, along with dappled light, can recreate an environment similar to its native habitat.

Overall, the Maidenhair-creeper is a graceful and elegant fern that not only adds aesthetic value but also brings a touch of the wild, tropical forest to any garden or indoor space. Its unique climbing ability and delicate fronds make it a plant worthy of appreciation and study, enhancing our understanding of the botanical richness within the Schizaeaceae family.

Common Names

Eng: maidenhair creeper, maidenhair-creeper
Khm: វល្លិខ្នាញ់
En: Maidenhair-creeper, Maidenhair creeper
Km: វល្លិខ្នាញ់

Synonyms

• Lygodium pubescens (Wall.)
• Lygodium tenue (C.Presl)
• Lygodium scandens ((L.) Sw.)
• Lygodium meyenianum (C.Presl)
• Hydroglossum pinnatifidum (Willd.)
• Ramondia flexuosa ((L.) Mirb.)
• Ramondia scandens ((L.) Mirb.)
• Lygodium rottlerianum (C.Presl)
• Lygodium serrulatum (Blume)
• Lygodium semibipinnatum (R.Br.)
• Hydroglossum flexuosum ((L.) Willd.)
• Hydroglossum microstachyum (Steud.)
• Hydroglossum semipinnatum (Poir.)
• Lygodium polymorphum ((Cav.) Kunth)
• Ophioglossum flexuosum (L.)
• Lygodium pilosum (Desv.)
• Hydroglossum elegans (Steud.)
• Odontopteris scandens ((L.) Bernh.)
• Lygodium maculatum (Bory)
• Lygodium elegans (Desv.)
• Ugena polymorpha (Cav.)

Distribution

• Andaman Is. (native)
• Assam (native)
• Bangladesh (native)
• Cambodia (native)
• China South-Central (native)
• China Southeast (native)
• East Himalaya (native)
• Hainan (native)
• India (native)
• Laos (native)
• Lesser Sunda Is. (native)
• Malaya (native)
• Maluku (native)
• Myanmar (native)
• Nansei-shoto (native)
• Nepal (native)
• New Guinea (native)
• Northern Territory (native)
• Philippines (native)
• Queensland (native)
• Sri Lanka (native)
• Sulawesi (native)
• Thailand (native)
• Vietnam (native)
• West Himalaya (native)
• Western Australia (native)
• Dominican Republic (introduced)
• Guyana (introduced)
• Haiti (introduced)
• Venezuela (introduced)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Feb 6, 2009 by Marcel B. (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Oct 3, 2021 by sama ape (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 4, 2021 by straynger (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/3744838)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:17142930-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Lygodium flexuosum (L.) Sw.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Vine

Growth