Dicranopteris flexuosa (commonly known as the drooping forked-fern) is a species of tropical fern in the family Gleicheniaceae, widely distributed across the Neotropics. Like other members of its genus, it is known for forming dense thickets in disturbed and open habitats, playing a key ecological role in tropical and subtropical forests by stabilizing soil, moderating microclimates, and promoting forest succession through rapid clonal growth and stress tolerance. Though often removed in forest management due to its dense growth, D. flexuosa may enhance ecosystem recovery by protecting soil and influencing plant community development.
From Wikipedia, under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Is it poisonous?
We have no record of Drooping forked fern being toxic, poisonous or venomous. That is not proof that it is safe. Never eat, touch or handle a wild plant, mushroom or animal on the strength of an identification; ask someone qualified.
Easily confused with
- Dicranopteris linearis
- Gleichenella pectinata
- Dicranopteris subpectinata
- Dicranopteris pedata
- Sticherus bifidus
- Sticherus owhyhensis
Classification
- Kingdom
- Plantae
- Phylum
- Tracheophyta
- Class
- Polypodiopsida
- Order
- Gleicheniales
- Family
- Gleicheniaceae
- Genus
- Dicranopteris
- Species
- Dicranopteris flexuosa
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