Origin
Temperate and tropical Asia, Australasia, Pacific Islands
Ecological Impact
Listed as a Category I invasive species in central and south Florida by the Florida Invasive Species Council. An aggressive invasive exotic, especially in hammocks. Forms on other plants and rocks, choking out the underlying native plants and hindering new growth.
Description
Tall fern that grows to 3', very similar to native ferns that naturally occur in the state. It has blunt pinnae tips, overlapping pinnae conceal the stem and its spores are wind-borne. Densest growth is in part/full shade with drained soils.
Identification Tips
Distinguished from native sword ferns by the dark brown scales at the base of the fronds.
History
Reported in the Keys in 1931.
Range
Central and south Florida
Prevention/Management Strategies
Do not plant. Monitor regularly and remove seed pods if possible. Site must be revisited several times to pull seedlings. Triclopyr amine or glyphosate can be applied to the foliage at 3-5% or 1-3%, respectively. Timing of application is critical to effectiveness; with applications in the fall prior to seed set being the most effective.