SafePlants

Weeping Ferns: A Diverse Group

The term "Weeping Fern" is applied to several different plants, belonging to different families and genera. This makes accurate identification crucial.

Considerations for Pets

• Some varieties, like Asparagus plumosus (Asparagus Fern), are commonly grown indoors.
• Be aware that some ferns can drop leaves, which may be tempting for pets to ingest.

Considerations for Children

• Be aware that some ferns can drop leaves, which may be tempting for children to ingest.

Scientific Names and Common Names

• Lepisorus thunbergianus: Weeping Fern
• Dryopteris dilatata 'Recurved Form': Weeping Broad Buckler Fern
• Podocarpus gracilior: Weeping Podocarpus, African Fern Pine
• Ficus benjamina: Weeping Fig
• Asplenium flaccidum: Weeping Spleenwort

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

Several families are represented among plants called "Weeping Ferns":

• Polypodiaceae: Family of Lepisorus thunbergianus
• Podocarpaceae: Family of Podocarpus gracilior

Distribution and Habitat

• Lepisorus thunbergianus is found in Japan.
• Asplenium flaccidum is found in New Zealand.
• One report indicates the presence of a Lepisorus species in Kenya.
• Podocarpus gracilior (Weeping Podocarpus) is not native to North America.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Dryopteris dilatata 'Recurved Form' is known for its "light airy graceful dropping fronds."
• Podocarpus gracilior can grow up to 50 feet tall.
• Weeping Figs (Ficus benjamina) have large arching branches and long pointed leaves.
• Some weeping varieties have delicate fern-like foliage.

Quirky Facts

• Weeping fig is known for dropping its leaves when it doesn't get what it wants.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina) has been associated with occupational allergic contact urticaria.

Further Information

• Discover Life offers a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Lepisorus thunbergianus.