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“My students are always kind of surprised to learn about what they have missed, what they haven't been paying attention to all their lives.”
Natural Sciences Professor Laura Alexander
Bracken Fern Pteridium aquilinum
Polypody Polypodiaceae family
Triangular leaf with subleaflets distinct and pointed. 3' long and 3' wide.
Stalk tall, same length as leaf, smooth, rigid and green.
Form/habitat: Branch-like form in three segments, relaxed with leaves almost horizontal to the ground. Moist barren or poor soil, woods and semi-shady areas. This is a very common fern in our area.
NWI status: FACU
Text by Thad Soule for CES301.
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