Marsh Fern (Thelypteris palustris)

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Marsh Fern is found in the sun, unusual for a fern, but it is also found in the woods in swampy areas and is a very common fern. It likes wet, acidic, sandy soil and is found throughout the state of Michigan. But, it can apparently adjust well to other soils. And, if it is happy, it can be spread by rhizomes.

Marsh Fern grows to about 2.5 feet tall, but can be a foot or less when it Is found in the shade. The edges of the leaflets (pinnules) are involute (curved downward). Fertile fronds are taller with thinner pinnae as compared to infertile fronds. See the photos for both types of fronds.

See the photos to see an example of the curvy and twisted state that this fern is often found in.

According to Illinois Wildflowers, Marsh Fern hosts the caterpillars of the Marsh Fern Moth.

Marsh Fern (Thelypteris palustris)

Michigan Flora reference page for state distribution: Marsh Fern

Height: 1-2.5 feet

Soil: sandy, sandy loam

Sun: full sun to shade

Plant spacing: 1-2 feet

Life cycle: Perennial

Family: Thelypteridaceae

Spore source: Michigan

Sizes:

Marsh Fern is found in the sun, unusual for a fern, but it is also found in the woods in swampy areas and is a very common fern. It likes wet, acidic, sandy soil and is found throughout the state of Michigan. But, it can apparently adjust well to other soils. And, if it is happy, it can be spread by rhizomes.

Marsh Fern grows to about 2.5 feet tall, but can be a foot or less when it Is found in the shade. The edges of the leaflets (pinnules) are involute (curved downward). Fertile fronds are taller with thinner pinnae as compared to infertile fronds. See the photos for both types of fronds.

See the photos to see an example of the curvy and twisted state that this fern is often found in.

According to Illinois Wildflowers, Marsh Fern hosts the caterpillars of the Marsh Fern Moth.

Marsh Fern (Thelypteris palustris)

Michigan Flora reference page for state distribution: Marsh Fern

Height: 1-2.5 feet

Soil: sandy, sandy loam

Sun: full sun to shade

Plant spacing: 1-2 feet

Life cycle: Perennial

Family: Thelypteridaceae

Spore source: Michigan