Xerophytic Fern Display

This collection showcases xerophytic (dry-growing) ferns which live in very arid conditions. Unlike many desert plants, such as cacti and agaves, they don’t have succulent, water-retaining leaves, roots, or stems; neither do they have sharp thorns or spines. They’ve adapted to the prolonged dry spells frequent in their native habitats in unique ways. Some species have waxy coatings on their leaves that reduce water loss. Others have silvery scales, which protect leaf tissue and deflect harsh sunlight. Some plants go dormant during periods of prolonged drought and respond rapidly to limited seasonal rainfall.

Regions

The Xerophytic Fern Display is one of the most notable of the Garden’s collections. It derives from the arid regions of California, deserts of the Americas, and from southern Africa. Represented genera include Myriopteris, Pellaea, Aspidotis, Astrolepis and Notholaena. During dry weather, you may notice that several of these ferns, such as species of Myriopteris and Pellaea, appear to be dead. Rather, they dry out and go dormant until heavy rain enables them to function again. Such plants may survive up to five years in this dormant state.

You can find the Xerophytic Fern Area display along the side of the Arid House, in Beds 125A–127B, as well as in the Asian Area and Californian Area.