Botrychium ternatum (Ophioglossaceae) Evergreen fern

Browse Plants Articles

Power Search!

Browse Botanic Names

Sponsored By KhorWills

Botrychium ternatum
Evergreen fern
(1 Page of 5)

The Botrychium ternatum plant species is found in E. Asia - China, Japan. N. America. It is a member of the Ophioglossaceae family.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Botrychium ternatum
Family:  Ophioglossaceae
Author:  Sw.

Known Hazards:  Although we have found no reports of toxicity for this species, a number of ferns contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable[200]. 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[172].

Mature Height:  0.3   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Thickets and grassy places in lowland and low mountains, C. and S. Japan[58].

Cultivation Notes: Prefers a sandy loam with just a small portion of peat[1]. Requires sharp drainage[1]. Best grown in an open position[1]. Plants can be difficult to establish. The prothalli (young plants formed when the spores germinate) of this plant form a symbiotic relationship with a mycorrhizal fungus, similar to the association of orchid seedlings with an invading fungus[200]. A very ornamental plant, it is said to require greenhouse protection in Britain[1] but might survive outdoors in the mildest areas of the country. Unlike most species of ferns, the fronds of this species grow up straight and not curled inward, crozier fashion[4]. Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer[233].

For further Botrychium ternatum gardening information
click on one of the blue links below

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
View their bibliography
Useful Edible Plants Future