maidenhair spleenwort (Asplenium trichomanes) observed in New York, US
iNaturalist: a1dan_see
Urban Ecology
iNaturalistConfirmed sightings like this help scientists track whether ferns and other shade-loving plants are holding their ground, expanding, or disappearing as urban development and climate change reshape local habitats.
Someone found a maidenhair spleenwort — a small, elegant fern with shiny dark stems — growing in New York and logged it as a verified observation. This type of fern loves rocky, shaded spots like stone walls, cliff faces, and forest outcrops. Collecting these sightings over time helps us understand how well native ferns are surviving in and around cities.
Key Findings
A research-grade observation of maidenhair spleenwort (Asplenium trichomanes) was recorded in New York, US
The observation meets iNaturalist's 'research grade' standard, meaning it was confirmed by multiple expert identifiers
New York represents part of the northeastern edge of this fern's North American range, making confirmed sightings ecologically meaningful
chevron_right Technical Summary
A maidenhair spleenwort fern was spotted and confirmed in New York, adding a verified data point to our understanding of where this delicate fern lives in the northeastern US.
Abstract Preview
Research-grade observation of maidenhair spleenwort in New York, US.
open_in_new Read full abstract on iNaturalistAbstract copyright held by the original publisher.
Species Mentioned
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Asplenium trichomanes, the maidenhair spleenwort, is a small fern in the spleenwort genus Asplenium. It is a widespread and common species, occurring almost worldwide in a variety of rocky habitats. It is a variable fern with several subspecies.