This is an archived copy of this article, recovered after a server failure in January 2022.

Some links may be broken, and editing is disabled. We are working to bring back full functionality.

Uses

Toxic parts

Although we have found no reports of toxicity for this species, a number of ferns contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable[1]. Many ferns also contain thiaminase, an enzyme that robs the body of its vitamin B complex. In small quantities this enzyme will do no harm to people eating an adequate diet that is rich in vitamin B, though large quantities can cause severe health problems. The enzyme is destroyed by heat or thorough drying, so cooking the plant will remove the thiaminase[2].

Edible uses

There are no edible uses listed for Polypodium lineare.

Material uses

There are no material uses listed for Polypodium lineare.

Medicinal uses(Warning!)

The whole plant is antiphlogistic and diuretic[3][4]. It is used in the treatment of urinary calculus[4], urinary tract infections, bacterial dysentery, chronic bronchitis and rheumatism[3].

Unknown part

Ecology

Ecosystem niche/layer

Ecological Functions

Nothing listed.

Forage

Nothing listed.

Shelter

Nothing listed.

Propagation

Spores - best sown as soon as ripe on the surface of a humus-rich sterilized soil. Keep the compost moist, preferably by putting a plastic bag over the pot. Pot on small clumps of plantlets as soon as they are large enough to handle and keep humid until they are well established. Do not plant outside until the ferns are at least 2 years old and then only in a very well sheltered position. Division in spring[1].

Practical Plants is currently lacking information on propagation instructions of Polypodium lineare. Help us fill in the blanks! Edit this page to add your knowledge.



Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus.

Tolerates short periods of drought and direct sunlight, but it prefers bright filtered light[1]. Plants can be grown on a drystone wall[1].

Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer[5].

Crops

Problems, pests & diseases

Associations & Interactions

There are no interactions listed for Polypodium lineare. Do you know of an interaction that should be listed here? edit this page to add it.

Polycultures & Guilds

There are no polycultures listed which include Polypodium lineare.

Descendants

Cultivars

Varieties

None listed.

Subspecies

None listed.

Full Data

This table shows all the data stored for this plant.

Taxonomy
Binomial name
Polypodium lineare
Genus
Polypodium
Family
Polypodiaceae
Imported References
Edible uses
Medicinal uses
Material uses & Functions
Botanic
Propagation
Cultivation
Environment
Cultivation
Uses
Edible uses
None listed.
Material uses
None listed.
Medicinal uses
None listed.
Functions & Nature
Functions
Provides forage for
Provides shelter for
Environment
Hardiness Zone
?
Heat Zone
?
Water
moderate
Sun
full sun
Shade
light shade
Soil PH
Soil Texture
Soil Water Retention
Environmental Tolerances
  • Drought
Ecosystems
Native Climate Zones
None listed.
Adapted Climate Zones
None listed.
Native Geographical Range
None listed.
Native Environment
None listed.
Ecosystem Niche
None listed.
Root Zone Tendancy
None listed.
Life
Deciduous or Evergreen
Herbaceous or Woody
?
Life Cycle
?
Growth Rate
?
Mature Size
x meters
Fertility
?
Pollinators
?
Flower Colour
?
Flower Type











References

  1. ? 1.01.11.21.3 Huxley. A. The New RHS Dictionary of Gardening. 1992. MacMillan Press ISBN 0-333-47494-5 (1992-00-00)
  2. ? Schofield. J. J. Discovering Wild Plants - Alaska, W. Canada and the Northwest. ()
  3. ? 3.03.13.2 ? A Barefoot Doctors Manual. Running Press ISBN 0-914294-92-X ()
  4. ? 4.04.14.2 Stuart. Rev. G. A. Chinese Materia Medica. Taipei. Southern Materials Centre ()
  5. ? Thomas. G. S. Perennial Garden Plants J. M. Dent & Sons, London. ISBN 0 460 86048 8 (1990-00-00)
  6. ? Ohwi. G. Flora of Japan. (English translation) Smithsonian Institution (1965-00-00)