Royal Lipfern (Cheilanthes notholaenoides)

Overview

Royal Lipfern (Cheilanthes notholaenoides) is a rare, small fern from the southwestern US and Mexico, with distinctive powdery white farina on the frond undersides.

Taxonomy

Description

Fronds are 5–15 cm long, tripinnate, with a dense coating of white farina beneath. Stipes are dark, shiny. The plant forms a compact clump on vertical rock faces.

Habitat and Cultivation

Grows on limestone cliffs in desert canyons. Requires bright light, excellent drainage, and very little water. Protect from winter wet. For specialized rock garden or alpine house collections.