SafePlants

Mexican Ferns: A Diverse Group

This page explores several ferns with "Mexican" in their common name, each belonging to different genera and families. From the hardy Mexican Male Fern to the tiny Mexican Mosquito-fern and the towering Mexican Tree Fern, we'll delve into their unique characteristics and origins.

Considerations for Pets

• Some ferns produce spores.
• The Mexican Tree Fern can grow to a considerable size.

Considerations for Children

• The Mexican Tree Fern can grow to a considerable size.

Mexican Male Fern (Dryopteris pseudofilix-mas)

• Scientific Name: Dryopteris pseudofilix-mas
• Common Name: Mexican Male Fern
• Distribution and Habitat: Native to the high mountains of Mexico and Guatemala.
• Morphology and Growth: Forms an upright clump of triangular green fronds. It is a semi-evergreen fern that produces new, large fronds throughout the growing season, unlike some other male ferns that only have a spring flush. Can reach a height of up to 120cm (4ft).
• Hardiness: Surprisingly cold hardy, listed for Zone 5-8.

Mexican Flowering Fern (Anemia mexicana)

• Scientific Name: Anemia mexicana
• Common Names: Mexican fern, Mexican Flowering Fern
• Family: Anemiaceae (Flowering Fern Family)
• Distribution and Habitat: Endemic to Mexico.

Mexican Mosquito-fern (Azolla mexicana)

• Scientific Name: Azolla mexicana
• Common Names: Mexican mosquito fern, Mexican azolla
• Taxonomy:
  • Genus: Azolla
  • Species: mexicana
  • Family: Azollaceae
• Distribution and Habitat: Native to Mexico, British Columbia, and the western United States.
• Morphology and Growth: A tiny floating aquatic fern, 1 to 2 cm in diameter, highly branched with tiny, fleshy leaves. It is an annual plant.
• Ecological Role: Recovery strategies are in place for this species in British Columbia.

Mexican Tree Fern (Schizolobium parahyba)

• Scientific Name: Schizolobium parahyba
• Common Names: Mexican Tree Fern, Tower Tree, Yellow Jacaranda, Quamwood
• Family: Fabaceae
• Subfamily: Caesalpinioideae
• Morphology and Growth: An amazing fast-growing tree (more than 5m in 18 months, with a trunk 20cm wide).

Other Ferns Mentioned

• Selaginella Mexican Mountain Fern
• Cibotium schiedei: A tropical species found growing in Mexico.
• Cibotium regale: Royal Mexican tree fern (German translation).

Quirky Facts

• The Mexican Tree Fern is noted for its rapid growth, gaining the nickname "Mile a Minute."

Resources and Further Information

• Dave's Garden: A community sharing tips and ideas for gardens, seeds, and plants.
• New York Botanical Garden: Where the Mexican Male Fern was introduced to cultivation in the USA.