Question: Hello! I'm hoping to get your thoughts on the identification of a fern found growing in a swamp (central MA) …
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Question
Hello! I'm hoping to get your thoughts on the identification of a fern found growing in a swamp (central MA) dominated by Ilex verticillata or laevigata. Initially, I thought that it might be Osmunda regalis. However, the shape of the fronds and the venation did not quite fit this species. Physically, it seems to resemble Cystopteris, but the habitat doesn't seem to fit that ID perfectly. No bulbils or glandular hairs noted on Rachise. Perhaps C. fragilis? Thanks as always! -Sam
Answer
Dear sgilvarg, good morning. As best I can tell, this fern is Osmunda regalis. The twice pinnately compound leaves with stalked leafules seems to fit well for this species. The ecology is also correct (O. regalis is a wetland plant). Best wishes.
