Microgramma heterophylla

Microgramma heterophylla (L.) Wherry

Synonym: Polypodium heterophyllum

Common Names: Climbing Polypody, Climbing Fern Vine

Family: Polypodiaceae

HabitMicrogramma heterophylla grows in 2 forms.  A sessile, creeping oval form and climbing elliptic/linear sterile and fertile fronds from a short scaly rhizome to 3 mm in diameter.  Glabrous subsessile fronds numerous from the rhizome, Each frond linear, up to 12 cm in length and 1 cm wide, with an entire margin and acute apex.

The round sori are arranged in rows parallel to the secondary veins along the abaxial surface.  There is no indusium.

HabitatMicrogramma heterophylla grows as an epiphyte/climbing vine in sinkholes, wet shady areas in Dry Broadleaf Evergreen Formation – Forests (coppice).

DistributionMicrogramma heterophylla is known to occur in the central and northern islands of the Lucayan Archipelago as well as the Caribbean, Mexico, Central and South America, Florida.

Medicinal/Cultural/Economic usageMicrogramma heterophylla is not known to be used medicinally in the Lucayan Archipelago.