Snakefern: A Native Epiphytic Treasure for Tropical Gardens
If you’ve ever wandered through Florida’s hammocks or tropical gardens and noticed small, leathery ferns gracefully draping from tree trunks or creeping along the ground, you’ve likely encountered the charming snakefern (Microgramma). This unassuming native fern might not demand attention like flashy flowering plants, but it plays a quietly important role in our natural ecosystems.
What Exactly is Snakefern?
Snakefern belongs to the world of ferns – those ancient plants that reproduce through spores rather than flowers or seeds. As a perennial herb, this little beauty lacks the woody tissue you’d find in shrubs or trees, instead sporting simple, leathery fronds that give it a distinctive appearance. Unlike many ferns that form large clumps, snakefern tends to creep and spread, creating interesting textural displays wherever it grows.
Where You’ll Find This Native Gem
Snakefern is a true native of the southeastern United States and Caribbean region. You can spot it naturally growing in Florida, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, where it thrives in the warm, humid conditions of tropical and subtropical environments.
Is Snakefern Beneficial for Your Garden?
Absolutely! Here’s why snakefern can be a wonderful addition to the right garden setting:
- Low maintenance appeal: Once established, snakefern requires minimal care and thrives in shady spots where other plants might struggle
- Natural ecosystem support: As a native species, it provides habitat and contributes to local biodiversity
- Unique texture: Its simple, leathery fronds add interesting visual texture to naturalistic plantings
- Versatile growth habit: Can work as ground cover or as an epiphytic accent when growing on trees
Perfect Garden Situations for Snakefern
Snakefern shines in specific garden types and conditions:
- Tropical and subtropical shade gardens
- Naturalistic landscapes that mimic native habitats
- Areas with high humidity and consistent moisture
- USDA hardiness zones 9-11 where temperatures rarely drop below freezing
How to Identify Snakefern
Spotting snakefern in the wild or distinguishing it from other small ferns is easier when you know what to look for:
- Frond appearance: Simple, undivided fronds that are leathery to the touch
- Growth pattern: Creeping or cascading habit, often growing as an epiphyte on tree bark
- Size: Relatively small compared to many other fern species
- Habitat preference: Typically found in shaded, humid environments
Growing Conditions and Care
If you’re lucky enough to garden in zones 9-11 and want to encourage snakefern in your landscape, focus on recreating its natural habitat:
- Provide consistent shade to partial shade conditions
- Maintain high humidity levels
- Ensure well-draining but consistently moist soil
- Consider allowing it to grow epiphytically on rough-barked trees
The Bottom Line on Snakefern
Snakefern might not be the showstopper of your garden, but it’s exactly the kind of native plant that adds authentic character to tropical and subtropical landscapes. If you’re gardening in its native range and creating naturalistic plantings, this little fern can be a delightful addition that supports local ecosystems while requiring minimal fuss from you. Just remember – it’s all about providing the right shady, humid conditions that make it feel at home.
