Status:
valid
Authors:
Hook. & Grev.
Source:
tro
Year:
1828
Citation Micro:
Icon. Filic. : t. 40A (1828)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0001111942
Common Names
- Ophioglossum ellipticum
- Elliptic Adder's Tongue
- Elliptic Grape Fern
Description
Ophioglossum ellipticum (also called Elliptic Adder's-tongue, among many other common names) is a small fern with a single, erect, lanceolate leaf that is divided into two parts. It is native to the Americas and is found in moist, shady areas such as woodlands, thickets, and swamps.
Uses & Benefits
Ophioglossum ellipticum is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a houseplant. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat skin diseases and wounds.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Ophioglossum ellipticum is a small, greenish-white spike. The seed is a small, black, round seed. The seedlings are small, with two opposite, simple leaves and a single root.
Cultivation and Propagation
Ophioglossum ellipticum is a fern native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It is a terrestrial fern that grows in moist, shady areas. It can be propagated by spores or by division of the rhizomes. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. It is best grown in a container with a well-draining potting mix. It can be propagated by division of the rhizomes in spring or by spores. It should be watered regularly and fertilized every few months.
Where to Find Ophioglossum ellipticum
Ophioglossum ellipticum is native to tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia.
Species in the Ophioglossum genus
Ophioglossum falcatum,
Ophioglossum intermedium,
Ophioglossum kawamurae,
Ophioglossum lineare,
Ophioglossum louisii,
Ophioglossum melipillense,
Ophioglossum opacum,
Ophioglossum parvum,
Ophioglossum rabellum,
Ophioglossum simplex,
Ophioglossum convexum,
Ophioglossum sandieae,
Ophioglossum lancifolium,
Ophioglossum pendulum,
Ophioglossum crotalophoroides,
Ophioglossum engelmannii,
Ophioglossum lusitanicum,
Ophioglossum nudicaule,
Ophioglossum petiolatum,
Ophioglossum reticulatum,
Ophioglossum vulgatum,
Ophioglossum polyphyllum,
Ophioglossum pumilio,
Ophioglossum dendroneuron,
Ophioglossum mononeuron,
Ophioglossum palmatum,
Ophioglossum bergianum,
Ophioglossum costatum,
Ophioglossum gomezianum,
Ophioglossum californicum,
Ophioglossum pusillum,
Ophioglossum fernandezianum,
Ophioglossum thomasii,
Ophioglossum scariosum,
Ophioglossum coriaceum,
Ophioglossum ellipticum,
Ophioglossum thermale,
Ophioglossum gramineum,
Ophioglossum oleosum,
Ophioglossum eliminatum,
Ophioglossum azoricum,
Ophioglossum parvifolium,
Ophioglossum austro-asiaticum,
Ophioglossum harrisii,
Ophioglossum oblongum,
Ophioglossum yongrenense,
Ophioglossum latifolium,
Ophioglossum gracillimum,
Ophioglossum caroticaule,
Ophioglossum lusoafricanum,
Species in the Ophioglossaceae family