Pine fern (Anemia adiantifolia, Syn. Fil.: 157 (1806))

Family: Schizaeaceae

Author: (L.) Sw.

Bibliography: Syn. Fil.: 157 (1806)

Year: 1806

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Anemia

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: Florida to Caribban, Mexico to Venezuela

Description

Pine fern, known scientifically as Anemia adiantifolia, is a captivating plant species belonging to the Schizaeaceae family. Notable for its delicate, feathery fronds, the plant exudes an elegant charm, reminiscent of the intricate beauty of more commonly known ferns, yet distinct in its own right.

First described in the publication “Syn. Fil.” in 1806, Pine fern carries the authoritative name (L.) Sw.. It holds a specific ecological niche in a range of warmer climates, extending its presence from the lush landscapes of Florida to the tropical realms of the Caribbean. Furthermore, its distribution continues through Central America, from Mexico down to the northern regions of Venezuela, thriving in the diverse array of ecosystems that this expansive geographical range offers.

Ecologically, Pine fern occupies a variety of habitats, often preferring shaded, moist environments that allow its delicate foliage to flourish. The plant’s fronds typically rise on thin, wiry stems, giving it an airy appearance and making it a unique addition to the floras of the regions it inhabits. Its intricate leaf structure provides essential cover and habitat for numerous small creatures, contributing to the biodiversity of its native regions.

The adaptability of Anemia adiantifolia has garnered interest not just from botanists and ecologists but also from horticultural enthusiasts who appreciate its aesthetic appeal. However, its natural habitats—often affected by environmental changes and human activities—warrant ongoing conservation efforts to ensure that this elegant fern continues to grace the tropical and subtropical understoreys where it naturally occurs.

In summary, Pine fern is a significant and elegant member of the Schizaeaceae family, with a presence stretching from Florida to Venezuela. This plant reflects the intricate beauty of its form, the richness of its habitats, and the ongoing need for its conservation amidst changing environmental conditions.

Common Names

Eng: pine fern, pineland fern
En: Pine fern, Pineland fern

Synonyms

• Anemia adiantifolia var. subaurita (Christ)
• Anemia adiantifolia var. pumila (Christ)
• Anemia adiantifolia var. carvifolia ((C.Presl) T.Moore)
• Osmunda aspleniifolia (Sav. ex Lam.)
• Ornithopteris adiantifolia ((L.) Bernh.)
• Anemirhiza adiantifolia (J.Sm.)
• Anemia carvifolia (C.Presl)
• Osmunda adiantifolia (L.)
• Anemia aspleniifolia (Sw.)
• Anemia alternifolia (Mickel)

Distribution

• Bahamas (native)
• Belize (native)
• Colombia (native)
• Costa Rica (native)
• Cuba (native)
• Dominican Republic (native)
• Ecuador (native)
• Florida (native)
• Guatemala (native)
• Haiti (native)
• Honduras (native)
• Jamaica (native)
• Leeward Is. (native)
• Mexico Central (native)
• Mexico Gulf (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Mexico Southeast (native)
• Mexico Southwest (native)
• Nicaragua (native)
• Puerto Rico (native)
• Trinidad-Tobago (native)
• Venezuela (native)
• Windward Is. (native)

Additional Images

Habit

Taken Jan 13, 2011 by EOL − Homer Edward Price (cc-by)

Leaf

Taken Oct 29, 2022 by Moronta Rodríguez (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 27, 2022 by Gisela Salvatierra Soñanes (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/2650258)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:1031990-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Anemia adiantifolia (L.) Sw.)

Specifications

Growth