Drynaria rigidula, Polypodium rigidulum

Drynaria rigidula (Basket Fern) can be grown in USDA Zone 9-11 outdoors, but it does need protection from harsh winters. It grows well in semi-shade position, in a well-draining, moisture-retentive soil. During the growing season, it prefers regular watering and occasional misting. To grow in cold regions, it is best to keep the plant in a pot and move it indoors during winter time. It also benefits from occasional fertilizing with an organic fertilizer during the growing season. This plant is a seasonal plant has leafless dormancy period during December-March and need less water.

Drynaria rigidula has great ethnomedical importance. It has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailment. In addition to the medicinal benefits, it is also a popular ornamental plant and is often used in rock gardens, pots, or hanging containers to add texture and interest to any garden space.

Similar plants:

• Drynaria willdenowii, Polypodium willdenowii (Basket Fern)
• Microgramma piloselloides, Polypodium piloselloides (Hairy Snakefern)
• Phlebodium aureum, Polypodium aureum, Polypodium leucotomos (Golden Polypody, Golden Serpent Fern, Cabbage Palm Fern)
• Polypodium polycarpon, Microsorum punctatum (New Guinea Microsorum)
• Polypodium sp. (Polypody)