Plant of the Week – Angiopteris helferiana C.Presl

Angiopteris helferiana C.Presl is a primitive, large tropical fern belonging to the ancient fern family Marattiaceae. It is known for its large size of fronds and is considered a relict species. Often found in moist, shaded forest regions, particularly along stream banks in tropical and subtropical forests. The plants are featured by stout, short and tuberous erect rhizome. Often covered with scars from fallen fronds. Fronds very large, reaching 3–6 m in length, bipinnate with a stout, thick grooved petiole. These plants are considered rare and Threatened due to habitat destruction. Green Ahalia has initiated ex –situ conservation of this rare plant and is growing well in our Fern house.

For more details: greenahalia@ahhkv.org