Keyed Out #031 — Polystichum setiferum

Question 1

It bears no flowers and sets no seed; the undersides of its divided fronds instead carry round clusters of tiny spore cases, each cluster capped by a small protective flap.

Accepted Answer

wood fern family

Question 2

Those clusters sit out on the face of the frond in rows either side of each segment's midvein, not crowded along the very edge beneath a rolled-over margin.

Accepted Answer

Dryopteridaceae

Question 3

The flap covering each round spore cluster is attached at its centre and stands over it like a tiny circular umbrella, rather than being hooked on at one side with a notch.

Accepted Answer

Polystichum

Question 4

Every small leaflet carries a distinct thumb-shaped lobe on its upper side at the base, pointing toward the frond tip, and its marginal teeth run out into fine bristles.

Accepted Answer

Polystichum

Question 5

Its small leaflets narrow into a distinct short stalk at the base, standing clear of the axis rather than sitting flush against it or being joined to it by a broad base.

Accepted Answer

Polystichum setiferum

Question 6

The whole frond is soft and limp to the hand with a dull matt surface, neither stiff and prickly nor polished as though lacquered.

Accepted Answer

Polystichum setiferum