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mountain spleenwort

Scientific Name: Asplenium montanum

Family: Aspleniaceae

Category: Fern

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names: CT (mountain spleenwort), IN (mountain spleenwort)

       

Mountain Spleenwort (Asplenium montanum)

The Mountain Spleenwort, scientifically known as Asplenium montanum, is a delicate and interesting fern primarily found in the eastern United States.

Considerations for Pets and Children

  • This plant is often found growing in the cracks of rocks on damp cliffsides, indicating a natural habitat that might involve rocky or uneven terrain.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Asplenium montanum Willd.
  • Common Name: Mountain Spleenwort
  • Family: Spleenwort Family (Aspleniaceae)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Endemic to the eastern United States.
  • Principally an Appalachian species, extending into New England at its northern limit.
  • Specifically mentioned as being restricted to the white conglomerate rock of the Shawangunk Mountains, where the largest group in New York seems to exist.
  • Also found in Harford Co., Maryland and Hanging Rock State Park, Stokes Co., NC.
  • Grows in cracks of rocks on damp cliffsides.
  • Rare in Connecticut and endangered in Massachusetts.

Morphological Characteristics

  • A small, tiny, and delicate fern.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Often found growing alongside crustose lichens in rocky habitats.
  • Asplenium montanum, A. platyneuron, and A. rhizophyllum can hybridize, sometimes resulting in sterile offspring.