- Texas has many native varieties of ferns.fern image by ana malin from Fotolia.com
Ferns are a relatively low-maintenance plant and can survive where many other plants may not, which means that they can thrive in a variety of climates. Texas has three main climates consisting of a marine climate along the coast, a mountain climate in the west and a continental climate in the rest of the state. Native ferns can be found naturally growing and cultivated in any climate and region in Texas. - Lady Fern (Athyrium filix-femina) is a native Texas plant that has a strong presence even though it has a delicate appearance. It grows vertically, reaching 2 to 3 feet in height. A horticulturist for East Texas Gardening reports this fern is said to have an aggressive or invasive tendency, though this is not always the case.
- The Sensitive Fern (Onoclea sensibilis) gets its name from its sensitivity to the cold since it withers with the first frost. It grows naturally along creeks and ditches in east Texas, and prefers slightly acidic soil. This fern is sensitive to drought and requires consistently moist soil to thrive, according to About Ferns.
- The Southern Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum capillus-veneris) is commonly found on the limestone cliffs and rocks of central Texas. Being a tough variety, it grows well in rock regions and in many different climates, though it is most often found in lime-rich, moist areas. Though it is tough, it has a delicate appearance, growing in thin branches with drooping, green leaves.
- The Dixie Wood Fern (Dryopteris x australis) is native to parts of southern United States and is a natural hybrid of two local varieties. It grows up to 5 feet in height and has a narrow, lance-shaped leaf. It makes an excellent focal point in a garden according to the Dallas News.
- Southern Wood Fern (Thelypteris kunthii) has lacy, light green fronds that grow vertically, similar to another native, the lady Fern. It grows to about 1 foot tall and thrives in sunlight, which can be unusual for a fern, but the soil needs to remain moist to grow well. It will not survive in deep shade, becoming weak and unattractive.
Lady Fern
Sensitive Fern
Southern Maidenhair Fern
Dixie Wood Fern
Southern Wood Fern
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