Status:
valid
Authors:
(L.) Brongn.
Source:
tro
Year:
1821
Citation Micro:
Bull. Sci. Soc. Philom. Paris 8: 186 (1821)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0001107241
Common Names
- Thalictroides Ceratopteris
- Thalictroides Water Fern
- Thalictroides Fern
Description
Ceratopteris thalictroides (also called Water Fern, among many other common names) is a floating aquatic fern native to tropical and temperate regions. It is typically found in ponds, marshes, and slow-moving streams. It has small, light green fronds with a distinctive triangular shape.
Uses & Benefits
Ceratopteris thalictroides is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. It is also used as a biofertilizer and for water purification.
Cultivars, Varieties & Sub-species
Ceratopteris thalictroides sub. thalictroides
Ceratopteris thalictroides sub. gaudichaudii (Brongn.) Fraser-Jenk. & Pariyar
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Ceratopteris thalictroides has small, white flowers with four petals and yellow anthers. The seeds are small, brown and oblong in shape. The seedlings are small and delicate with long, thin stems and small, oval-shaped leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Ceratopteris thalictroides is a hardy, aquatic fern that is easy to propagate and cultivate. It prefers shallow water in full sun and can tolerate partial shade. Propagation is best done by division of the rhizomes in early spring or by spore sowing in late summer. It is also possible to propagate from cuttings of the fronds.
Where to Find Ceratopteris thalictroides
Ceratopteris thalictroides is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world.
Species in the Ceratopteris genus
Species in the Pteridaceae family