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Cochise scaly cloakfern

Scientific Name: Astrolepis cochisensis ssp. cochisensis

Family: Pteridaceae

Category: Fern

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Cochise Scaly Cloakfern (Astrolepis cochisensis)

The Astrolepis cochisensis, commonly known as Cochise Scaly Cloakfern, is a fern species native to the southwestern United States.

Considerations for Pets

  • This fern has small leaves and a small stature.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Astrolepis cochisensis (Goodding) Benham & Windham
  • Common Names: Cochise Scaly Cloakfern, Cochise Cloakfern, Scaly Cloak Fern, Jimmy Fern.
  • Family: Pteridaceae (Desert Fern family)
  • Synonyms:
    • Cheilanthes cochisensis
    • Cheilanthes sinuata var. cochisensis
    • Notholaena cochisensis
    • Notholaena sinuata var. cochisensis
  • Taxonomic Rank: Subspecies include:
    • Astrolepis cochisensis subsp. arizonica
    • Astrolepis cochisensis subsp. cochisensis

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
  • Specifically found in areas such as Texas, New Mexico, Arizona (e.g., Pima County, Waterman Mtns, Ironwood Forest).

Morphological Characteristics

  • Ferns with small leaves and small stature.
  • Scaly greyish stems.

Genetic Information

  • Isozyme analyses suggest that subsp. cochisensis is an autotriploid derivative of the diploid.

Ecological Role

  • When the weather is extra dry, this species can enter a dormant state.

Quirky Facts

  • The plant's Latin name, Astrolepis cochisensis, comes from the type locality in Cochise County, Arizona.

Further Information

  • Discover Life: Provides information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Astrolepis cochisensis.
  • ASU Vascular Plant Herbarium: Contains information on Astrolepis cochisensis subsp. arizonica.
  • Encyclopedia of Life: Provides information on Family: Pteridaceae.