Ferns & Such

Alani Davis adavis@ecoresource.com
Sat, 16 Sep 2006 17:19:40 PDT
The term bulb refers to specialized leaf bases that serve as a storage
structure and are specifically located above the true root structure. To my
knowledge, bulbs are a monocot exclusive.

Tubers on the other hand get around
Like Robert said, Nephrolepis cordifolia produces tubers on its roots but as
far as I know they will not propagate if separated from the plant and are
primary water storage which attests to this fern's high dry tolerance (for a
fern). It spreads by stolons. I can't think of any others at the moment but
they are probably out there. Fleshy rhizomes tend to be more common in
ferns.

Cystopteris bulbifera & Asplenium bulbiferum produce adventitious shoots
that develop an admittedly tuber-like ball of rhizome that would be
specialized stem that in turn produces the true roots and leaves. It is
technically not a tuber but rhizome. Woodwardia orientalis is another fern
that does this.

Alani Davis



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