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green cliffbrake

Scientific Name: Cheilanthes viridis

Family: Pteridaceae

Category: Fern

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Green Cliff Brake (Pellaea viridis)

The Green Cliff Brake, scientifically known as Pellaea viridis, is a fern species with several common names and a fascinating distribution. This page provides information about its characteristics, habitat, and more.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some sources mention a related plant, Pellaea rotundifolia (Button Fern), also called Cliff Brake, is considered non-toxic to pets. While this might suggest Pellaea viridis is also safe, further research is always recommended.

Considerations for Children

  • Pellaea viridis foliage can have a variety of textures and shapes, including smooth or ruffled edges.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Pellaea viridis (Forssk.) Prantl
  • Common Names: Green Cliff Brake
  • Synonyms: Some sources mention Cheilanthes viridis as an alternative name.
  • Family: Pteridaceae Ching.
  • Taxonomic Rank: Variety - Pellaea viridis var. viridis

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to South Africa and Australia.
  • Found in rocky habitats.
  • Occurs in dry or mesic areas of Kaua?i, O?ahu, Maui, and Hawai?i.
  • Also found in East Africa (Tropical East Africa species), Reservoir Hill Forster NSW.
  • Present in Oceania.

Ecological Role

  • Invasive species in Sydney, Australia. This suggests it can spread aggressively and potentially outcompete native flora.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Fern with fresh apple green, well-shaped fronds.
  • Fronds radiate from a wire-thin black stem.
  • Height: 12–18 inches tall.
  • Rhizome is short-creeping and scaly.
  • Foliage color: Green.
  • Leaf form: Described as having a variety of shapes, types of division, and shades of green, including smooth or ruffled textures.
  • Fronds can range from dark green to grayish-green.

Quirky Facts

  • One source describes watching "the tips of the fronds - if they’re green, keep doing what you’re doing!" which suggests this is a good indicator of its health.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Grows in woods, ravines, and rocky crevices.

Further Information

  • RHS (Royal Horticultural Society)
  • Plant Delights Nursery
  • Dave's Garden
  • Australian Plant Census
  • Plants of Hawaii
  • Discover Life
  • Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam, Netherlands