resurrection fern

Scientific name: Pleopeltis polypodioides

Verified common names: resurrection fern, resurrection polypody

Family: Polypodiaceae

Genus: Pleopeltis

Taxonomic note: A true fern (vascular, spore-producing) in Polypodiaceae; not closely related to resurrection plants in other plant groups such as Selaginella.

Overall form: An epiphytic or epipetric fern forming irregular mats or tufts anchored by creeping, scaly rhizomes. Fronds arise from the rhizome and may overlap to create dense patches on bark or rock.

General size: Fronds are typically small to medium in size for ferns and commonly present as multiple overlapping leaves on a plant patch; individual frond length can vary with habitat and moisture.

Flower characteristics: None — Pleopeltis polypodioides is a fern and reproduces via spores rather than flowers.

Leaf structure and arrangement: Fronds are simple to pinnatifid (sometimes appearing pinnate through deep lobing), leathery in texture when hydrated, with a distinct midrib and occasionally lobed or toothed margins. Fronds attach directly to the creeping rhizome and form a radiating or overlapping pattern.

Distinctive identifying features: Ability to desiccate and persist as curled, brown fronds during dry periods and rapidly rehydrate to a bright green, expanded form after rain; scaly creeping rhizomes that cling to host surfaces; sori (clusters of sporangia) visible on the underside of fertile fronds, typically lacking a true indusium.

Seasonal variation: In seasonal dry spells or drought the plant often appears brown and shriveled; it typically resumes a fresh green appearance within hours to days after rehydration.

General growing conditions: Often epiphytic on tree branches and trunks (commonly on oaks), and also found on rock faces and other stable substrates. Tolerates attachment to bark, wood, and rocky surfaces where organic debris accumulates.

Moisture, light, and soil preferences: Typically found in humid to seasonally dry settings; often prefers filtered light to partial shade and relies on atmospheric moisture and intercepted debris rather than mineral soil.

Geographic distribution: Occurs across much of the southeastern and eastern United States (including AL, AR, DE, FL, GA and many other states) and is also reported in subtropical regions beyond the U.S. Its presence is commonly associated with warm, humid climates.

Reproduction and dispersal: Produces spores in sori on the undersides of fronds; spores are generally wind-dispersed.

Wildlife interactions: Often contributes to epiphytic community structure, providing moisture-holding microhabitats and shelter for small invertebrates and microorganisms. Does not rely on animal pollinators.

Conservation status: Generally common in suitable habitats and not widely regarded as threatened in its range.

Notable adaptation: Exhibits well-documented desiccation tolerance (poikilohydry), allowing fronds to dry out and remain viable for extended periods, then rehydrate and regain metabolic function rapidly after rainfall — the trait that gives it the name “resurrection” fern.

Distinction: Though called a “resurrection” plant, Pleopeltis polypodioides is a fern and should not be confused with unrelated resurrection species in other plant groups.