Rumohra adiantiformis in a comfortable spot

This young, lacy frond of Rumohra adiantiformis was seen in Fernkloof at Hermanus among rocks by a stream. Preferring damp, shady spots, the plant has made most of such opportunities in many parts of the world and admired wherever it takes root and people are around. The plants grow sheltered from wind and sun by trees and rocks in nature and gardens; dappled sunlight is ideal.

The reddish, scaly rhizome creeps along the ground for moisture to grow more fronds. The Cape form of this species is said to reach above average sizes (Bean and Johns, 2005; Wikipedia; www.forestferns.co.za).