Vittaria J.E. Smith. Shoestring Fern.
A genus of about 7 species, mainly epiphytic and epipetric perennial herbs, of the tropics and subtropics. The circumscription of Vittaria has been significantly narrowed (PPG I; Kessler, Smith, & Prado 2017).
ID notes: Vittaria in its sporophytic form is readily recognized by its epiphytic or epipetric habit (usually epiphytic on Sabal palmetto), and narrow (< 4 mm wide), linear, pendent leaves. It might be mistaken for Campyloneurum, which has broader leaves and separate sori on the lower surface (as opposed to sori sunk in submarginal grooves in Vittaria). The gametophytic species, Vittaria appalachiana, is mistakable only for a non-vascular plant.
Ref: Farrar (1993a) In Flora of North America Editorial Committee (1993b); Farrar & Mickel (1991); Kramer & Green (1990); Pinson, Chambers, & Sessa (2017). Show full citations.
Hover over a shape, letter, icon, or arrow on the map to see what it means. Data for arrows not developed for genera and families which may have species only occurring outside the flora area.