Pleopeltis polypodioides - Resurrection fern
Family Polypodiaceae

Description:

About fifty species of Pleopeltis are native the Americas, Africa and Asia. They grow on rocks or as epiphytes in trees. This species, the resurrection fern, is found growing on trees, rocks, posts and buildings. During dry times, the leaves turn brown and shrivel. When moistened, the dry leaves expand and turn green again. It is native to the southeastern United States, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.

Location:

See these plants on trees along the Lake Oneida boardwalk.

Size:

A herbaceous perennial with leaves about three to four inches long.

Care Instructions:

Light: part shade to shade

Water: requires moist, well-drained conditions

Soil: grows as an epiphyte on trees, not in soil

In Florida, resurrection fern usually grows as an epiphyte in trees. It grows best in areas with high humidity. It is not often cultivated in gardens but is an attractive and interesting plant where it occurs naturally.