Gleicheniaceae

Gleichenia Sm.

 

Description of the genus

Rhizome bearing lanceolate or deeply laciniate scales, resembling stellate hairs in appearance. Fronds branching repeatedly into two as a result of the abortion of the terminal buds, without a pair of stipule-like pinnae at the primary branching of the fronds. Ultimate segments borne only on the distal lamina axes; veins simple or forked once. Branches of lamina with dormant apices of the highest order 2-pinnatifid. Sori with very few sporangia.

 

Derivation of name:  Gleichenia: named after Baron von Gleichen-Ruswurm (1717-1783), German naturalist.

Worldwide: c. 10 spec, paleotropical and austral distribution

 

Key to the species of Gleichenia: PDF

 

We have 2 taxa in the database for Gleichenia.

  • Gleichenia elongata Baker
  • Gleichenia polypodioides (L.) Sm.
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    Literature

  • Crouch, N.R., Klopper, R.R., Burrows, J.E. & Burrows, S.M. (2011) Ferns of Southern Africa, A comprehensive guide. Struik Nature.
  • Jacobsen, W.B.G. (1983) The Ferns and Fern Allies of Southern Africa. Butterworths, Durban and Pretoria.
  • Roux, J.P. (2001) Conspectus of Southern African Pteridophyta.Southern African Botanical Diversity Network Report, 13: 1-222.
  • Schelpe, E.A.C.L.E. (1970) Pteridophyta.Flora Zambesiaca, 0: 1-254.

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