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Common polypody

How to identify Common polypody (Polypodium vulgare)

Common polypody, also known as Wall fern, Maltese polypody

Common polypody is recognized by its sturdy, evergreen fronds which extend to approximately 12 inches (30 cm) in length. These fronds emerge from a horizontal rhizome and are distinguishable by their leathery texture and a pronounced bumpy texture on the upper surface. This bumpiness is due to the presence of large sori – clusters of sporangia – on the undersides of the fronds, which are a key identification feature. The fern's robust constitution allows it to thrive in a variety of settings, including the nooks of old walls, rocky crevices, and as epiphytes on tree limbs.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Fern

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Common polypody

1

Leathery fronds up to 12 inches (30 cm) long

2

Bumpy texture on upper frond surface from large sori

3

Bright green triangular fronds with 10-18 pairs of leaflets

4

Leaflets have smooth or slightly tooth-like margins

5

Robust constitution thriving in varied environments

Common polypodyCommon polypodyCommon polypodyCommon polypodyCommon polypody

Detailed Traits of Common polypody

Leaf Features

The leaves of common polypody are bright green and leathery, forming triangular fronds that range from 4 to 20 inches (10 to 50 cm) in length. Each frond has 10 to 18 pairs of leaflets, which diminish in size towards the tip and are off-set from each other. The margins of the leaflets are either smooth (entire) or slightly tooth-like (dentate), offering a distinctive texture and pattern for easy identification.

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Key Facts About Common polypody

Attributes of Common polypody
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Fern
Plant Height
30 cm
Fruit Color
Yellow
Orange
Gold
Silver
Gray
Stem Color
Green
Leaf type
Evergreen
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Scientific Classification of Common polypody

Class
Ferns
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Family
Polypody
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Species
Common polypody (Polypodium vulgare)
Learn More About the Common polypody

Distribution Map of Common polypody

Common polypody is a plant with a broad natural distribution across temperate and subtropical regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa. It has also been introduced and cultivated in New Zealand, signifying a presence in Oceania. Common polypody is adaptable to various climates and has been cultivated beyond its native range.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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