Rock Cap Fern
Polypodium virgianum
- Rock Splitting Fern -
Still verdant and vibrant, I came across this fern only a week or so ago. It is known as the rock cap fern or the common polypody fern. As seen above, it lives up to its name, commonly growing on rocks. The word polypody comes from the Greek meaning "many-footed." As stated in The Fern Lover's Companion, this name is an allusion to the branching roots of the plants. Many ferns are considered polypody.
As one walks through the woods it is easy to see all of nature as one, especially plants. One big organism of greens, browns, grays with flares of color here and there, now and again. But to stop and look, one can easily behold a thousand independent organisms each with there own peculiarities and importance. The common polypody is distinct it's own shape, reproduction, and niche.
- Clinging to a Rocky Face -
Winter has arrived in Paradise. This past weekend, there was 10 inches of snow and was only 11°F Saturday morning. For herbaceous consumers that do not hibernate, the polypody will be a welcome sight. A food source when all else fails.
And, when one comes across a mighty mass of stone that has been cleaved in twain, it is possible the little feet of the polypody began the process of weathering. Slowly but surely, a plant like the rock cap fern can split granite erratics.
Learn about the Persian Speedwell HERE.
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