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small-leaf false cloak fern

Scientific Name: Argyrochosma microphylla

Family: Pteridaceae

Category: Fern

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Small-leaf False Cloak Fern (Argyrochosma microphylla)

Considerations for Pets

  • Ferns often have varied foliage and small parts.

Considerations for Children

  • Ferns often have varied foliage and small parts.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Argyrochosma microphylla (Mett. ex Kuhn) Windham
  • Common Names: Small-leaf false cloak fern, small-leaf cloak fern, small-leaf silver fern
  • Family: Pteridaceae
  • Genus: Argyrochosma (commonly known as false cloak ferns)
  • Synonyms:
    • Cheilanthes parvifolia (R. Tryon)
  • Etymology: microphylla comes from the Greek words "mikros" (small or little) and "phyllon" (leaf), meaning "small-leaved".
  • Taxonomic Status: Accepted

Distribution and Habitat

  • The plant is found in Big Bend, Texas, and is not present in Idaho.

Ecological Role

  • Can be a little invasive, spreading by underground roots.

Morphological Characteristics

  • A forb/herb, meaning it is a non-woody plant that is not a grass.
  • Perennial plant.
  • Medium in size and can reach up to 1.2 meters high.
  • Assumes a green coloring throughout the seasons (spring, summer, autumn, winter).
  • Small leaves.
  • Has stems, leaves, and roots like other vascular plants.
  • Fronds split in two and fan horizontal fronds of tiny leaflets, spreading like fingers.

Resources and Further Information

  • USDA PLANTS database
  • Discover Life
  • Dave's Garden
  • Alamy