Status:
valid
Authors:
Ridley; Bower
Source:
ipni
Year:
1901
Citation Micro:
Nature 64. 617. 1901; Ann. Bot. 18. (1901)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000147745
Common Names
- Simple Adder's-tongue
- Simple Grapefern
- Simple Rattlesnake-fern
Synonyms
- Ophioderma simplex (Ridl. ex Bower) Nishida [unknown]
Description
Ophioglossum simplex (also called Simple Adder's-tongue, among many other common names) is a species of fern in the Ophioglossaceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States and is found in moist, sandy soils in open woods, savannas, and along roadsides. It has a single, erect, fertile frond that is up to 8 inches tall and is divided into two parts. The upper part is a sterile, fan-like blade with many small, oval leaflets. The lower part is a single spike of small, yellowish-green flowers.
Uses & Benefits
Ophioglossum simplex is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. It is also used to make herbal teas and tinctures that are believed to have medicinal properties.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Ophioglossum simplex is small and greenish-brown in color. The seed is a small, dark brown, oval-shaped spore. The seedlings are small, greenish-brown, and have a single leaf.
Cultivation and Propagation
Ophioglossum simplex is a terrestrial fern native to the Mediterranean region. It is a slow-growing, evergreen fern that prefers moist, well-drained soil in partial shade. Propagation is by division of the rhizome in the spring or by spores.
Where to Find Ophioglossum simplex
Ophioglossum simplex can be found in moist, shady areas in the eastern United States and Canada.
Ophioglossum simplex FAQ
What is the scientific name of Ophioglossum simplex?
Ophioglossum simplex
What type of plant is Ophioglossum simplex?
Fern
Where is Ophioglossum simplex found?
North America
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