Polystichum acrostichoides
Ecological Benefits: wintertime food source for Ruffed Grouse, used as material for nest building, host plant for larval Serpentine Webworm
Bloom period: evergreen, reproduces by spores
Best Areas for Planting: low to mid-moisture; part shade-full shade; well-drained, acidic, rich soils of rocky or sandy composition
Natural Habitat: can be found in forests, rocky woods, streambanks, thickets
Most of the species information is from The Virginia Native Plant Society website, which offers free, extensive pdfs for each region of Virginia, highlighting about 100 native species (there are many more!) and helpful additional information for planning personal projects. If you aren’t from Virginia, you can search for similar resources in your state! To explore other resources and advice, navigate to the guidance page.
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