Polystichum squarrosum

Family: Dryopteridaceae

What it is like

A fern. It is herb. The frond stalk is erect. The plant is tufted. It is densely scaly. The axis that bears the leaflets is rust coloured with fine scales. The fronds are 5-70 cm long and oval to sword shaped. They are twice divided. There are many primary leaflets and the secondary leaflets are oblong and unequal at the base. They have an ear shaped projection on the upper side. There are small spines along the edge. The spore bodies are brown and in a single row on either side of the main vein.

There are about 200 Polystichum species.

Where it is found

It is a tropical plant. In Nepal it grows between 1000-3000 m altitude. In southern China it grows between 1,900-2,400 m above sea level.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Australia, Bhutan, China, Himalayas, India, Nepal, Pakistan

How it is used for food

Tender portions are cooked and eaten as a vegetable.

It is sold in local markets.

Edible parts

Leaves, fronds

How it is grown

Plants are grown from spores.

Its other names

Local names

Bhyagute nyuro, Phusre neuro, Phusre nyuro, Rato unyu

Synonyms

Aspidium squarrosum D. Don; and others