Ferns are fascinating plants that grow in many parts of the world. With their unique leaves and prehistoric roots, they capture the interest of both seasoned gardeners and curious beginners. By discovering the names and features of different types of ferns, you can expand your vocabulary while making learning English more engaging and enjoyable.
Contents
Types of Fern
Types of Indoor Ferns
Grey Ghost Fern
The Grey Ghost is an indoor fern that thrives under partial or complete shade, it can be kept well out of sunlight and can grow to 2 or 3 feet in height.
Hart’s Tongue Fern
A more exotic-looking fern that also thrives with either partial or complete shade. They are a little smaller than the Grey Ghost and only grow to about 1 or 2 feet in height.
Staghorn Fern
This fern can technically be grown indoors and outdoors, but it is a tricky one. If you want to grow it indoors, you need to supply it with bright light often to allow it to grow to its full potential. However, if you grow it outdoors, you need to make sure it stays out of direct sunlight or it will end up having its leaves burned. The Staghorn tends to reach 3 feet.
Delta Maidenhair
Another fern that can be grown outdoors, but should be kept out of direct sunlight. It is much better grown indoors, kept away from sunlight. These ferns can be anywhere between 1 or 2 feet high.
Hen and Chickens Fern
Hen and Chickens ferns thrive in partial shade indoors. They start small and adorable but can grow to a rather formidable size of 3 to 4 feet.
Types of Outdoor Ferns
Eagle Fern
The first of the outdoor ferns, the Eagle Fern needs to be kept in direct sunlight to flourish. It can do just as well in part shade, but it’s recommended to allow it to soak in the full force of the sun. It can grow to 4 feet tall, but in some cases, it’s been seen to even reach 6 feet!
Giant Wood Fern
While the Giant Wood Fern thrives outdoors, it’s still a good idea to keep it under a little bit of shade to watch it thrive. They can grow to 3 or 4 feet tall.
Australian Tree Fern
This fern requires the full sun to make sure it grows into a healthy plant. It’s a pretty spectacular size when fully grown so it is often recommended to grow it near trees to fit it into your outdoor space nicely. They can reach 30 feet in height, but most tend to stop around the 15 feet mark.
What Is A Fern?
A fern is a type of plant that reproduces through spores – unlike most plants which often need either flowers or seeds to reproduce. This makes ferns unique compared to any other type of plant that is grown and the shapes and sizes that they can grow into really can vary from anything you might ever have seen. Most ferns can be identified by their distinctive look as opposed to anything else, most novice gardeners can separate a fern these days.
Unique Fern Varieties
In this section, we will introduce you to some unique fern varieties, which we believe will pique your interest. These ferns not only add beauty to gardens but also serve as great indoor plants. Without further ado, let’s dive into these fascinating plants.
Maidenhair Fern
Maidenhair Fern, scientifically known as Adiantum capillus-veneris, is a delicate plant with feathery, light green fronds. This elegant fern loves moist, well-drained soil and prefers a shady environment. Maidenhair Ferns are perfect for an English countryside garden or as an indoor plant, placed in a bright but indirectly lit corner.
Boston Fern
Boston Fern or Nephrolepis exaltata is a popular indoor fern, known for its lush, green foliage. It is a versatile and low-maintenance plant. This fern thrives both indoors and outdoors, as long as it is kept in a humid environment away from direct sunlight. The feathery fronds of the Boston Fern make it a wonderful addition to your home.
Staghorn Fern
These unique ferns are called Staghorn Ferns or Platycerium spp. What sets them apart is their unusual appearance, as they have irregularly shaped leaves resembling deer antlers. They can be mounted on a piece of wood or hung up as an air plant. Staghorn Ferns prefer indirect sunlight and moderate humidity levels, making them a great choice for adding texture and intrigue to a room.
Lady Fern
The beautiful Lady Fern, or Athyrium filix-femina, is an attractive fern with lacy, light green fronds. Hardy and adaptable, it grows well in a range of conditions, including damp and shaded areas. Lady Fern is a true woodland beauty that can grace both your garden and your home with elegance.
Tree Fern
Tree Ferns belong to multiple families, with Cyatheales being the most prominent. These majestic ferns can grow up to 15-20 feet tall, giving them a tree-like appearance. Their large, umbrella-like fronds provide a stunning tropical touch to gardens, while also creating a statement piece in a spacious living room.
Ferns in Different Ecosystems
Ferns are a diverse group of plants that can be found in various ecosystems worldwide. In this section, we will explore the characteristics of ferns in different environments, focusing on tropical ferns, temperate ferns, and water ferns. Let’s dive into these fascinating plants and learn what makes them unique.
Tropical Ferns
Tropical ferns are commonly found in rainforests and other humid environments. These ferns thrive in warm temperatures and high humidity levels. Some examples of tropical ferns include:
- Bird’s nest fern (Asplenium nidus): This fern grows in a rosette shape, with its fronds forming a “nest” at the center of the rosette.
- Staghorn fern (Platycerium spp.): Staghorn ferns have unique, antler-shaped leaves covered in a fuzzy layer that helps retain moisture.
- Maidenhair fern (Adiantum): Maidenhair ferns are delicate, featuring thin, wiry stems and fan-shaped leaflets.
Temperate Ferns
Temperate ferns can be found in cooler climates and deciduous forests. They are adapted to a range of conditions, including cold winters and dry spells. Some examples of temperate ferns include:
- Lady fern (Athyrium spp.): Lady ferns are commonly found in North America and Europe. Their delicate, lacy fronds make them popular among gardeners.
- Bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum): Bracken ferns are known for their large, triangular fronds and their ability to grow in various habitats, such as meadows, woodlands, and heathlands.
- Cinnamon fern (Osmundastrum cinnamomeum): This fern is named for its cinnamon-colored, fertile fronds that emerge in the center of the plant.
Water Ferns
Water ferns are a unique group of plants that grow in or around water, making them well-suited for ponds and other aquatic environments. They come in various shapes and forms and provide valuable habitat for aquatic organisms. Some examples of water ferns include:
- Water clover (Marsilea spp.): Water clover has a clover-like appearance, with its leaflets arranged in fours, making it easily recognizable.
- Water spangle (Salvinia spp.): Water spangle is a floating fern, featuring small, round leaves that float on the water’s surface.
- Azolla (Azolla spp.): The tiny, floating water fern Azolla is known for its ability to fix nitrogen, improving water quality and providing a valuable resource for aquatic life.
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