Polypodium virginianum Play pronunciation

The common rockcap fern is an herbaceous perennial in the polypody family (Polypodiaceae). It ranges from Greenland through eastern North America, and in the north, it extends to Alaska. The species epithet refers to the state of Virginia. 

Once established, this fern grows well in a variety of conditions, making it a low-maintenance plant that likes moist, well-drained soils but can tolerate drought. It prefers deep shade and loam or sandy soil. It grows 6 inches to 1 foot high and wide. It reproduces by spores. 

The common rockcap fern is believed to be a naturally, fertile, stabilized allotetrapoid hybrid of P. appalachianum and P. sibiricum. Nectaries are present at the base of the frond's blade. The sori are orange to brown and lack an indusium. The fronds are evergreen, making this fern of winter interest. This plant looks very similar to Polypodium appalachianum, making it difficult to distinguish the two plants. One key difference, however, is that this plant's leaf blades are widest near the middle.

It grows naturally on rock walls and tree roots that are covered with moss. Because of its adaptability, it can be used to line borders or in native, woodland, shade or rock gardens.

Quick ID hints

• evergreen fern
• Fronds erect to arching, lance-shaped to triangular
• Sori, orange to brown, large and circular, lacking an indusium, in rows along each side of the midvein.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems: No significant diseases or pests. Watch for Florida Fern Caterpillars.

VIDEO Created by NC State Extension's Homegrown series featuring Mark Weathington, Director of JC Raulston Arboretum.