About Woodsia ilvensis (L.) R.Br.
Scientific Name and Leaf Dimensions
This species, known by the scientific name Woodsia ilvensis (L.) R.Br., typically has leaves around 6 inches long and 1 inch wide.
Leaf Structure
Its leaves have stiff, erect pointed tips, and are divided into 12 nearly opposite, stemless leaflets.
Leaf Underside Characteristics
The underside of the leaves is covered in white woolly fibres that turn rusty brown as they age.
General Distribution
This fern has a circumpolar distribution. It is most abundant in Scandinavia, the Ural and Altai mountains, and the eastern United States. It can also be found in Japan, Alaska, Canada, coastal Greenland, and various European locations including the Alps.
US Conservation Status
In the United States, it is listed as Threatened or Endangered in Illinois, Iowa, and Maryland, and Presumed Extirpated in Ohio. It also occurs in West Virginia and North Carolina, and it is the most common Woodsia species found in the US.
UK Distribution
In the United Kingdom, its distribution is restricted to Angus and the Moffat Hills in Scotland, north Wales, and Teesdale and the Lake District in England.
UK Population and Endangerment
Fewer than 90 wild clumps of this species exist across the entire UK, where it grows at the edge of its natural range and is classified as Endangered.
UK Legal Protection
Because of this status, it became a protected species in the UK in 1975 under the Conservation of Wild Creatures and Wild Plants Act.
