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.
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].
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
Imported References
Material uses & Functions
Uses
Material uses
None listed.
Medicinal uses
None listed.
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.
References
-
? 1.01.11.21.3 Huxley. A. The New RHS Dictionary of Gardening. 1992. MacMillan Press ISBN 0-333-47494-5 (1992-00-00)
-
? Schofield. J. J. Discovering Wild Plants - Alaska, W. Canada and the Northwest. ()
-
? 3.03.13.2 ? A Barefoot Doctors Manual. Running Press ISBN 0-914294-92-X ()
-
? 4.04.14.2 Stuart. Rev. G. A. Chinese Materia Medica. Taipei. Southern Materials Centre ()
-
? Thomas. G. S. Perennial Garden Plants J. M. Dent & Sons, London. ISBN 0 460 86048 8 (1990-00-00)
-
? Ohwi. G. Flora of Japan. (English translation) Smithsonian Institution (1965-00-00)