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Broad Beech Fern
Phegopteris hexagonoptera
COSEWIC Status: Special Concern
COSSARO Status: Special Concern
Broad Beech Fern Credit: S.Brinker
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Description
- Attractive fern with delicate, triangular-shaped fronds which can grow to a height of 50 cm or more.
- Leaflet stems are not always opposite. The underside of the frond is faintly downy; short, scaly hairs can sometimes be found on the veins.
- Has a creeping, scaly, slightly pulpy root.
- Fronds appear towards the end of May.
Habitat
- One known site in Muskoka – it prefers to grow in rich, moderately acidic soils, in deciduous forest such as maple-beech forests, where the soil is moist or wet.
- Northern limit of range.
Threats
- Logging operations and the mechanization of maple sugar operations can have negative effects.
Range Map
For more information about the Broad Beech Fern in the Georgian Bay area, contact:
Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry
SAR Biologist
7 Bay Street
Parry Sound, Ontario
P2A 1S4
Phone:
705-746-4201