Species in the genus Cystopteris are collectively the fragile ferns. Cystopteris protrusa is called Fraglie Fern by Michigan Flora. Other common names include Southern Fragile Fern, and Lowland Bladder Fern. The lower part of the lower peninsula of Michigan is the upper limits of the northern range for this fern.
Most fragile ferns are found in association with rocks, but this one is not. Southern Fragile Fern spreads by rhizomes and can be quite abundant, but it can be outcompeted easily especially by plants like garlic mustard. The rhizomes are hairy which is a distinguishing characteristic of this fern.
Fiddleheads emerge in the spring and are green with some tan scales. These scales are retained throughout the season. The pinnules (leaflets) are usually alternate or almost opposite with the bottom two pinnule being shorter than the next pair ascending the stem.
Michigan Flora reference page for statewide distribution: Southern Fragile Fern
Height: 12”
Soil: loam, or with some rocky material, moist
Sun: light shade
Plant spacing: 12”
Life cycle: perennial
Family: Cystopteridaceae
Spore source: Michigan
Sizes:
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Species in the genus Cystopteris are collectively the fragile ferns. Cystopteris protrusa is called Fraglie Fern by Michigan Flora. Other common names include Southern Fragile Fern, and Lowland Bladder Fern. The lower part of the lower peninsula of Michigan is the upper limits of the northern range for this fern.
Most fragile ferns are found in association with rocks, but this one is not. Southern Fragile Fern spreads by rhizomes and can be quite abundant, but it can be outcompeted easily especially by plants like garlic mustard. The rhizomes are hairy which is a distinguishing characteristic of this fern.
Fiddleheads emerge in the spring and are green with some tan scales. These scales are retained throughout the season. The pinnules (leaflets) are usually alternate or almost opposite with the bottom two pinnule being shorter than the next pair ascending the stem.
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