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Gleichenia Fern
Dicranopteris pedata
γ³γ·γ
A fern forming colonies on hillsides, forest edges, and roadsides in warm regions. The fronds repeatedly fork dichotomously to create large fan-shaped fronds. It thrives even in acidic and nutrient-poor soils, often dominating the understory of Cryptomeria plantations and eroded slopes.
Identification Points
- βFronds repeatedly branch in equal dichotomies, forming a distinctive shape
- βSmall dormant buds (bud scales) remain at each branching point
- βForms extensive colonies that exclude other plants
Habitat
Hillsides, forest margins, eroded slopes, and nutrient-poor soils in warm-temperate zones
Season
Year-round (evergreen)
3D Specimen Model
Kyushu University, Shikano Lab (CC0)
View on SketchfabβMorphological TraitsAI-estimated, needs verification
Evergreen/Deciduous
Evergreen
Phylogenetic Positionγ³γ·γη§ β
Phylogenetic Position
Vascular plants > Polypodiophyta > Polypodiopsida > Gleicheniales > Gleicheniaceae
Divergence Era
Triassic to Jurassic (approx. 200 million years ago onward)
Evolution Notes
Gleicheniaceae is one of the older fern lineages, retaining the primitive frond form of simple, equal dichotomous branching.
View on evolution timeline βSources & References
AI-generated, needs verification