Broad Beech Fern
Broad Beech Fern Credit: S.Brinker
Phegopteris hexagonoptera
Description
- Attractive fern with delicate, triangular-shaped fronds which can grow to a height of 50 cm or more.
- Leaflet stems are not always opposite. The underside of the frond is faintly downy; short, scaly hairs can sometimes be found on the veins.
- Has a creeping, scaly, slightly pulpy root.
- Fronds appear towards the end of May.
Habitat
- One known site in Muskoka – it prefers to grow in rich, moderately acidic soils, in deciduous forest such as maple-beech forests, where the soil is moist or wet.
- Northern limit of range.
Threats
- Logging operations and the mechanization of maple sugar operations can have negative effects.
Range Map
