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wahini noho mauna

Scientific Name: Adenophorus tamariscinus

Family: Grammitidaceae

Category: Fern

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Adenophorus tamariscinus: Wahine Noho Mauna (Lady of the Mountain)

Explore the captivating Adenophorus tamariscinus, commonly known as Wahine Noho Mauna (Hawaiian for Lady of the Mountain) or Zig-Zag Fern. This native Hawaiian fern adds a touch of mystique to the islands' diverse flora.

Considerations for Pets

  • This fern grows on tree trunks.

Considerations for Children

  • This fern grows on tree trunks.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Adenophorus tamariscinus
  • Common Names: Wahine Noho Mauna (Lady of the Mountain), Zig-Zag Fern, Palai Huna
  • Family: Polypodiaceae
  • Synonyms: Adenophorus Pinnatifidus, Adenophorus Tripinnatifidus
  • Variety: Adenophorus tamariscinus var. montanus

Distribution and Habitat

  • Adenophorus tamariscinus is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands, specifically excluding Niihau (Ni) and Kauai (Ka).
  • It is found on islands such as Oahu, including locations like Mt. Ka'ala and Poamoho Summit.
  • It thrives as an epiphytic fern, often found growing on the trunks of Ohia trees.
  • It grows as a lithophytic plant.

Quirky Facts

  • In some genealogical chants, Mauna Kea is associated with the epithet "ka wahine noho mauna," linking the fern symbolically to the mountain and its snow-clad attendants like Lilinoe and Waiaie (Waiau).

Ecological Role

  • Adenophorus tamariscinus is mentioned as being common in the forest understory along with other lithophytic Hymenophyllaceae and Grammitidaceae.

Further Information

  • More images and information can be found at Plants of Hawaii by Forest and Kim Starr.