Woodwardia

Woodwardia chain fern

Glossy green fronds emerge individually, scattered along the rhizome.  Stipes tend to be longer than the blade and veins are netted, especially near the midrib.  Sori are long and narrow and run along both sides of midveins, end to end so forming a chain.

Grow in acid swamps and other shaded, acid, wet places.

Range is from southern Maine to Florida, Texas, Arkansas up toward Michigan

Wetland Code: OBL

Woodwardia areolata (netted chain fern) Plant is native to PA

This fern appears in late spring with shiny new …

Woodwardia virginica (Virginia chain fern) Plant is native to PA

New fronds of this fern have a bronzy color and …

Woodwardia chain fern

Woodwardia gallery
Common Names
chain fern