Adiantum jordanii facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Adiantum jordanii |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Adiantum
|
| Species: |
jordanii
|
The Adiantum jordanii is a type of fern often called the California maidenhair. It belongs to the maidenhair fern group. This fern is a perennial plant, meaning it lives for more than two years. It is part of the Pteridaceae family.
Contents
California Maidenhair Fern
The California maidenhair fern is a beautiful plant. It is known for its delicate, trailing leaves. These leaves can grow quite long.
What Does It Look Like?
Each leaf of the California maidenhair fern can be over half a meter long. That's about 20 inches! The leaves are made of many small, rounded green parts. These parts are called segments. Each segment usually has two to four small bumps or "lobes." Sometimes, the segment might split between these lobes. On the underside of each segment, you can find one to four sori. Sori are small clusters of spores. This is how ferns reproduce.
Where Does It Grow?
This fern is native to two main areas. It grows naturally in California and Baja California. Baja California is a state in Mexico. In its southernmost homes, you might find it growing near other plants. These include Mimulus aridus and Daucus pusillus.
A Plant That Helps Spread Disease?
The California maidenhair fern can carry a tiny, fungus-like organism. This organism is called Phytophthora ramorum. It causes a serious plant disease. This disease is known as Sudden Oak Death.
What is Sudden Oak Death?
Sudden Oak Death is a disease that harms many trees and plants. It is especially dangerous for oak trees. When a tree gets this disease, it can quickly become sick and die. The Phytophthora ramorum organism spreads easily.
How Do We Stop the Spread?
Because the fern can carry this organism, rules are in place. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) helps control its spread. They focus on areas where Sudden Oak Death is common. These areas include parts of California, Oregon, and New York.
When these ferns are sold, their origin must be known. They also need a special health certificate. This is called a phytosanitary certificate. It shows the plant is healthy and free of pests. The USDA also advises people not to take cuttings from wild ferns. This helps prevent accidentally spreading the disease.
Using This Fern in Gardens
The California maidenhair fern is popular in gardens. People use it in native plant gardens. These gardens use plants that naturally grow in the area. It is also used in wildlife gardens. These gardens help attract and support local wildlife.
