Dryopteris affinis subsp. cambrensis

Narrow male-fern

Dryopteris affinis subsp. cambrensis, commonly known as the Welsh wood fern, is a resilient perennial fern prized in traditional herbalism. Renowned for its lush, spreading fronds, this plant has historically been utilized for its potential anti-inflammatory and anthelmintic properties, offering a fascinating glimpse into botanical medicinal heritage.

  • Scientific name: Dryopteris affinis subsp. cambrensis
  • Family: Polypodiaceae
  • Native range: Europe

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified within the phylum Streptophyta and the class Equisetopsida. Under the subclass Polypodiinae and order Polypodiales, it is a member of the family Polypodiaceae. Finally, it is categorized under the genus Dryopteris as the subspecies cambrensis.

Rank Classification Source
Kingdom Plantae WCVP
Phylum Streptophyta WCVP
Class Equisetopsida WCVP
Subclass Polypodiinae WCVP
Order Polypodiales WCVP
Family Polypodiaceae WCVP
Genus Dryopteris WCVP

Common Names

This plant, known by the common name Narrow Male-fern in English, is a subspecies of the fern species Dryopteris affinis.
Language Common Name Source
en Narrow Male-fern Wikidata

Distribution

This plant exhibits a broad distribution across several key regions of the European continent. In Northern Europe, its presence is well-documented in Denmark, Norway, Great Britain, and Ireland. Moving southward, the species also extends into Middle Europe. Specifically, it can be found growing within the borders of Austria. Consequently, its range spans from the northern coastal reaches to the central mountain regions.

Region Area Source
Northern Europe Denmark WCVP
Northern Europe Great Britain WCVP
Northern Europe Ireland WCVP
Northern Europe Norway WCVP
Middle Europe Austria WCVP
Middle Europe Belgium WCVP
Middle Europe Czechia-Slovakia WCVP
Middle Europe Germany WCVP
Middle Europe Hungary WCVP
Middle Europe Switzerland WCVP