Arachniodes simplicior (Makino) Ohwi

Simpler Holly Fern

Herb

Perennial

Vascular

Simpler Holly Fern is an introduced evergreen perennial in the Wood Fern family (Dryopteridaceae). It is native to China and Japan. It was first reported as naturalized in the United States from South Carolina in 1960. Since that time it has been reported from Alabama, Arkansas, and Georgia. In Alabama it is known to occur in three counties. Simpler Holly Fern grows in rich woods, along streams, and in Bald Cypress swamps. It is a perennial from densely scaly, creeping rhizomes. The leaves are thick, evergreen, monomorphic (having one shape), 2-3 pinnate, and triangular in outline. In Alabama material the frond is dark green in color with a greenish-yellow stripe down the center of each pinna. This from is referred to as Arachniodes simplicior 'Variegata' or Variegated Holly Fern in the horticultural trade. The petiole is green in color with tan colored scales. There are 3-5 pairs of pinnae, with the basal pair of pinnae 2-pinnate. The margins of the pinnae, especially at the apex are dentate and spinulose. Spores are produced in sporangia on the lower surface of the leaf. The sporangia are grouped together in sori (clusters) covered by a round to kidney shaped flap of tissue known as an indusium. Simpler Holly Fern is often available from nurseries. It prefers a shaded, moist habitat with organic rich soil. Due to its demonstrated ability to escape, it probably should not be utilized in Alabama gardens.--A. Diamond

This species was first collected in Alabama by Wayne Barger in 2012.

Not Native

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