SafePlants

Hymenophyllum: The Filmy Fern Genus

Hymenophyllum is a genus of ferns belonging to the family Hymenophyllaceae. The name "Hymenophyllum" translates to "membranous leaf," a reference to the exceptionally thin, translucent fronds characteristic of these ferns. This feature is also responsible for their common name: filmy fern.

Considerations for Pets

• Some species are epiphytic, meaning they grow on other plants. Consider if your pet has access to the trees/plants where they are growing.
• The fronds of Hymenophyllum are thin and delicate, which may make them attractive to pets.

Considerations for Children

• The fronds of Hymenophyllum are thin and delicate, which may make them attractive to children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Hymenophyllaceae
• Genus: Hymenophyllum
• Examples of species and their synonyms:
  • Hymenophyllum hirsutum (L.) Sw. - Hairy Filmy Fern
  • Hymenophyllum axillare Sw. - Axillary Filmy Fern
  • Hymenophyllum brevifrons Kunze - Antilles Filmy Fern

Common Names

• Filmy Fern
• Hairy Filmy Fern (used for multiple species)
• Drooping Filmy Fern
• Axillary Filmy Fern
• Antilles Filmy Fern
• Shiny Filmy-fern

Distribution and Habitat

• Some species, like Hymenophyllum villosum, are terrestrial or epiphytic, growing in montane regions.
• Hymenophyllum species are found in New Zealand.
• Certain species, such as Hymenophyllum asplenioides, are native to the Caribbean.

Morphological Characteristics

• The defining characteristic of Hymenophyllum ferns is their thin, translucent fronds.
• Some species, like Hymenophyllum hirsutum, exhibit hairy fronds.
• Hymenophyllum villosum has long, creeping rhizomes.
• Hymenophyllum demissum is described as pale to dark green, glabrous, and flimsy.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Some species are epiphytic, growing on other plants.

Quirky Facts

• The M?ori names for Hymenophyllum villosum are Irirangi and Piripiri.
• The fronds of some species resemble hairy caterpillars due to impressive marginal hairs.

Further Resources

• Te Papa's collections: Access information on specimens.
• Discover Life: Biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution information.