Question: Was wondering if this may be an ostrich fern fiddlehead? Hairless, defined ridge on stem. Second ID..of small plant with …
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Question
Was wondering if this may be an ostrich fern fiddlehead? Hairless, defined ridge on stem. Second ID..of small plant with white flower ? Location , hardwood forest ,Wildlife Management Unit #4 .Patterson N.Y. Thank you
Answer
Dear Dan, the flowering plant with white flowers is Anemone quinquefolius (wood windflower). The fern is likely a species of Dryopteris (wood fern). The fiddleheads of Matteuccia struthiopteris are defined from other ferns in the region by three characteristics: growing in a clump with multiple leaves emerging together, a deep grove on the inside surface of the petiole, and a covering of broad, papery, red-brown scales. Best wishes.
