ALIEN FERNS IN HAWAI'I

Selaginella umbrosa

Selaginella umbrosa Lemaire ex Hieronymous was found growing on shady, wet cinder walls along the 'Akaka Falls trail, 'Akaka Falls State Par in June 2000 (K. Lynch s.n., 15 June 2000). This species can be distinguished by its bright red, unbranched erect lower stem and the flat, much branched, upper portion with bright green leaves. Native from Mexico to northern South America, it is widely cultivated and has naturalized in many tropical areas including Queensland, Australia.