Shield fern, Wood fern
Dryopteris sparsa

Family: Dryopteridaceae

What it is like

A fern up to 80 cm tall. It forms clumps. The rootstock is erect and becomes tufted. It has large papery scales. The stalks of the fronds are erect, brown and smooth and shiny. The fronds are 30-80 cm tall. They are broadly triangular and divided 2 or 3 times. They are dull green, thin and break easily. The spore bodies are round and have a cover over them.

There are about 200 Dryopteris species.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It grows in cool shady positions in tropical rainforests. It grows up to 2,000 m above sea level. It is easily damaged by wind.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Australia, Bhutan, China, Himalayas, India, Indochina, Indonesia, Japan, Myanmar, Nepal, Northeastern India, Pacific, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, SE Asia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam

How it is used for food

The young leaves are eaten.

Edible parts

Fronds, leaves

How it is grown

It can be grown from spores which should be sown fresh.

Its other names

Local names

Kaja habo, Pakis perisai

Synonyms

Nephrodium sparsa D. Don;