| Killarney Fern | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Division: | Tracheobionta |
| Class: | Pteridophyta |
| Order: | Hymenophyllales |
| Family: | Hymenophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Trichomanes |
| Species: | T. speciosum |
| Binomial name | |
| Trichomanes speciosum Willd. |
|
Trichomanes speciosum commonly known as Killarney Fern is a species of fern found widely in Western Europe. It is most abundant in Ireland, the United Kingdom, Brittany and Canary Islands, Madeira and the Azores, but is also found in other locations including France, Spain, Portugal and Italy.[1]
The sporophyte form is found in only 16 locations in the UK although the gametophyte form is more widespread. Once found on Arran, it was thought to be extinct in Scotland due to the activities of Victorian collectors,[2] but the species has been discovered on Skye in its gametophyte form.[3] In the UK it is classed as vulnerable and it is considered one of Europe's most threatened plants.[4]
It is one of only three European species with translucent leaves and requires a humid, frost-free environment. In Britain, it is largely restricted to damp, shady, sheltered locations such as ravines.[5]