Status:
valid
Authors:
Brongn.
Source:
tro
Year:
1823
Citation Micro:
Dict. Class. d'Hist. Nat. 3. 351. 1823. 1823
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0001108898
Common Names
- Ceratopteris richardii
- Richard's ceratopteris
- Richard's water fern
Description
Ceratopteris richardii (also called the water fern, among many other common names) is a species of water fern in the Ceratopteridaceae family. It is native to the tropical Americas and is found in humid forests and wet cliffs. It has a creeping rhizome with fronds that are typically 10–30 cm long.
Uses & Benefits
Ceratopteris richardii is often used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage. It is also used medicinally to treat skin conditions and as an astringent.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Ceratopteris richardii has small, yellowish-green flowers and small, round, black seeds. The seedlings are small and have a single, upright stem with small, lanceolate leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Ceratopteris richardii is a species of fern native to tropical and subtropical Asia and the Pacific Islands. It is an evergreen fern with a creeping rhizome and fronds that can reach up to 1 m in length. It is best grown in moist, well-drained soil in partial shade. Propagation is by division of the rhizome or by spores.
Where to Find Ceratopteris richardii
Ceratopteris richardii is found in the eastern United States, from Florida to New York and west to Texas.
Species in the Ceratopteris genus
Species in the Pteridaceae family