Plant Profile: Pleopeltis polypodioides

The Resurrection Fern is a resilient evergreen species commonly found clinging to trees—particularly on leaning trunks and Live Oaks—as well as on fallen logs, stumps, ledges, and rocks. It can even thrive on fence posts and buildings. This fern often attaches itself to host plants such as live oak, elm, magnolia, and cypress. Classified as an epiphyte, it relies on other plants for structural support but not for nutrition, drawing moisture and nutrients from the air or from small water pools that form on its host. Additionally, it is epipetric, meaning it can also grow directly on rock surfaces.

Establishing this plant can be challenging. During dry spells, it may appear to wither, but it quickly regains its lush appearance with rainfall. The fern propagates through creeping rhizomes, which are adorned with lance-shaped brown scales that have fringed edges. Its fronds curl up when dry but rapidly rehydrate when exposed to rain.

The roots of the Resurrection Fern are fibrous in nature.