Ross’ Woodfern: Arizona’s Mysterious Native Fern
Meet Ross’ woodfern (Dryopteris rossii), one of Arizona’s more enigmatic native plants. This perennial fern is a bit of a botanical mystery – while it’s officially recognized as native to the Grand Canyon State, detailed information about this particular species is surprisingly scarce in gardening literature.
What Makes Ross’ Woodfern Special?
Ross’ woodfern belongs to the wood fern family, a group known for their elegant, feathery fronds and forest-dwelling habits. As a native Arizona species, this fern has adapted to survive in the unique conditions of the southwestern United States – no small feat for a plant group that typically prefers moist, shaded environments.
You might also see this plant listed under its scientific synonym, Dryopteris patula var. rossii, in older botanical references. Like other members of its genus, it’s classified as a forb – essentially a non-woody perennial that dies back to ground level and re-emerges each growing season.
Where Does It Grow?
Ross’ woodfern is native to Arizona, making it one of the few fern species that call this desert state home. This limited distribution makes it quite special among native plant enthusiasts.
Should You Grow Ross’ Woodfern?
Here’s where things get interesting – and a bit challenging. While Ross’ woodfern is undoubtedly a fascinating native plant, specific growing information for this species is hard to come by. This could be due to several factors:
- It may be quite rare in cultivation
- It might have very specific habitat requirements
- There could be ongoing taxonomic questions about its classification
- It may be confused with other similar Dryopteris species
General Fern Benefits in the Garden
Even though specific information about Ross’ woodfern is limited, we can talk about why native ferns, in general, make wonderful garden additions:
- Wildlife habitat: Ferns provide shelter and nesting material for small creatures
- Erosion control: Their root systems help stabilize soil
- Unique texture: Ferns add a distinctive, prehistoric feel to landscapes
- Low maintenance: Once established, most native ferns require minimal care
- Shade tolerance: Perfect for those tricky shaded spots in your garden
The Bottom Line
Ross’ woodfern represents the fascinating diversity of Arizona’s native flora, proving that even desert states have their fern species. However, due to the limited information available about its specific growing requirements and availability, it’s not a plant you’re likely to find at your local nursery.
If you’re interested in adding native Arizona ferns to your landscape, consider reaching out to native plant societies, botanical gardens, or university extension offices in Arizona. They may have more specific information about this species or can suggest similar native ferns that are better documented and more readily available.
Sometimes the most intriguing plants are the ones that keep a little mystery about them – and Ross’ woodfern certainly fits that description!
