SafePlants

Mexican Scaly Cloakfern

The Mexican Scaly Cloakfern, scientifically known as Astrolepis sinuata subsp. mexicana, is a perennial forb/herb native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant belongs to the fern family, and ferns typically have brown scaly root-stalks.
• The plant has small leaflets.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Astrolepis sinuata (Lag. ex Sw.) Benham & Windham subsp. mexicana Benham
• Common Name: Mexican Scaly Cloakfern
• Family: Pteridaceae (Maidenhair Fern Family)
• Synonyms: Astrolepis sinuata ssp. mexicana D.M. Benham
• Other Common Names: Wavy Scaly Cloak Fern, Wavy Cloak Fern, Long Cloak Fern, Jimmy Fern

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the southwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas) and northern Mexico.
• Occupies mainly desert habitat, often found on calcareous soils.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It's described as a multi-branching sub shrub with long bright green stems covered in small leaflets.
• Perennial forb/herb.

Ecology

• Extremely hardy fern from the Chihuahuan Desert.
• Grows in rocky substrates.
• Adaptable to the New Mexican climate, developing thickened leaf edges.

Interesting Associations

• Windham's Scaly Cloakfern is related and its genetic material is linked to A . sinuata, A . cochisensis, and an unnamed Mexican taxon related to A . crassifolia.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden: A community sharing tips and ideas for gardens.
• Encyclopedia of Life: Includes articles about the Mexican Scaly Cloakfern.
• United States Department of Agriculture (USDA): Provides information on the plant's distribution.
• Flora of North America: Provides detailed botanical information.
• New Mexico Biodiversity Collections Consortium database: Contains herbarium records.