Woodwardia

Woodwardia is a genus of ferns belonging to the family Blechnaceae. It is commonly known as the chain fern due to the distinctive arrangement of sori, which resemble a chain along the underside of the fronds. There are several species within the genus, found in temperate and subtropical regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia.

These ferns are typically terrestrial, growing in moist, shaded habitats such as forests, stream banks, and damp ravines. They are characterized by their large, pinnately compound fronds, which can grow quite tall. The fertile fronds bear the spore-producing structures, the sori, which are elongated and arranged in rows. The sterile fronds are usually broader and may differ in appearance from the fertile ones.

Woodwardia species are often used in landscaping for their ornamental value, particularly in shade gardens and along water features. Their robust nature and tolerance for damp conditions make them a popular choice for certain garden designs. Some species have also been used in traditional medicine, although scientific evidence for their efficacy is often limited. The genus is named after Thomas J. Woodward, an English botanist.