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(Christella normalis)
Kunth’s Maiden Fern (Christella normalis)
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Mike Ostrowski
CC BY-SA 4.0
Image By:
Mike Ostrowski
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY-SA 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Mike Ostrowski | License Type: CC BY-SA 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ | Rights Holder: Mike Ostrowski | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2021-01-02T15:30:15-08:00 |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Christella normalis, commonly known as Kunth’s Maiden Fern, is a deciduous perennial herb that thrives in the understory of moist forests, along stream banks, and in shaded ravines, primarily in the Southeastern USA, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America. It typically grows to a height of 3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters) and a width of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters). This fern features delicate, arching fronds with a light green coloration and a feathery texture, which adds a soft, lush appearance to shaded garden areas. The fronds are typically divided into numerous small leaflets, giving them a lace-like appearance.
Kunth’s Maiden Fern is valued for its ability to thrive in shaded conditions where other plants may struggle. It is often used in woodland gardens, as a ground cover, or in naturalized areas to create a serene, forest-like setting. This fern is relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established. It prefers consistently moist soil but is somewhat drought-tolerant once established. It is not known for any significant pest or disease issues, making it a reliable choice for gardeners seeking a hassle-free shade plant. However, it should be noted that ferns in general can be sensitive to overwatering and poor drainage.CC BY-SA 4.0
Kunth’s Maiden Fern is valued for its ability to thrive in shaded conditions where other plants may struggle. It is often used in woodland gardens, as a ground cover, or in naturalized areas to create a serene, forest-like setting. This fern is relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established. It prefers consistently moist soil but is somewhat drought-tolerant once established. It is not known for any significant pest or disease issues, making it a reliable choice for gardeners seeking a hassle-free shade plant. However, it should be noted that ferns in general can be sensitive to overwatering and poor drainage.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Fern
- Height: 3-6 feet
- Width: 1-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Shade, Part Shade
- Water: Medium, High
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Border Plant, Deer Resistant, Low Maintenance, Water Garden
Natural Habitat
Thrives in the understory of moist forests, along stream banks, and in shaded ravines
Other Names
Common Names: Southern Shield Fern, Widespread Maiden Fern
Scientific Names: , Thelypteris kunthii, Dryopteris normalis, Christella normalis, Thelypteris normalis, Cyclosorus kunthii, Lastrea normalis, Thelypteris macrorhizoma, Nephrodium kunthii, Thelypteris saxatilis
GBIF Accepted Name: Christella normalis (C.Chr.) Holttum