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Windham's scaly cloakfern

Scientific Name: Astrolepis windhamii

Family: Pteridaceae

Category: Fern

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Astrolepis: Scaly Cloak Ferns

This page provides information on several species within the Astrolepis genus, commonly known as scaly cloak ferns. We'll explore details about their classification, distribution, and unique characteristics.

Considerations for Pets

  • Several species within the genus Astrolepis have scaly leaflets.

Scientific Names and Common Names

  • Astrolepis cochisensis: Commonly known as Cochise Scaly Cloakfern.
  • Astrolepis sinuata: Known as Wavy Scaly Cloakfern, Wavy Cloak Fern, Long Cloak Fern, or Jimmy Fern.
  • Astrolepis windhamii: Known as Windham's Scaly Cloakfern.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Genus: Astrolepis Benham & Windham
  • Family: Pteridaceae (Maidenhair Fern Family)
  • Synonyms (for Astrolepis sinuata): USDA Symbol: ASSI9
  • Subspecies of Astrolepis cochisensis:
    • Astrolepis cochisensis ssp. arizonica D.M. Benham (Arizona Scaly Cloakfern)
    • Astrolepis cochisensis ssp. chihuahuaensis Benham (Chihuahua Scaly Cloakfern)
    • Astrolepis cochisensis ssp. cochisensis

Distribution and Habitat

  • Astrolepis sinuata is native to Texas.
  • Astrolepis windhamii can be found in New Mexico.
  • These ferns are often found on scarce, rare rocky slopes and canyon rims.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Astrolepis sinuata is a perennial, semi-evergreen fern, typically reaching 1-3 feet in height.
  • Astrolepis windhamii has tightly clustered leaflets with a dusting of scales.
  • Stems of Astrolepis windhamii can be compact to short-creeping.

Quirky Facts

  • When the weather is extra dry, species like Astrolepis cochisensis enter into a state of dormancy or reduced activity.

Further Information

  • Dave's Garden offers tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.
  • The UA Herbarium and ASU Vascular Plant Herbarium may hold specimens of these plants.
  • ITIS (Integrated Taxonomic Information System) provides taxonomic information (TSN 500981 for Astrolepis sinuata).
  • Flora of North America (vol. 2) contains information on Astrolepis windhamii.