Goldenback fern has dark green triangular fronds, which sprout from dark brown, wiry stems. Each frond has 2-3 layers of division: from the central spine stretch more traditional triangular fern fronds, from which more slightly lobed fronds extend. The underside of the leaf, where the spores emanate from, is pale yellow. The thin-stemmed fronds, which grow 6 to 12 inches tall, typically grow in small groups.
Basic Information
Member of the Maidenhair Family (Pteridaceae)
Perennial herb and fern
There are two recognized varieties:
P. triangularis subsp. semipallida — pale gold back fern
P. triangularis subsp. triangularis
Habitat
Native from British Columbia south to Baja California, Mexico and east to Idaho, Nevada, and Utah
Commonly found in the shady, rocky areas of chaparral, oak woodland, and mixed evergreen forest environments
Ecological Role
The fronds are eaten by species such as the dusky-footed woodrat
Reproduction
This is a non-flowering species — rather than produce flowers, this plant releases airborne spores to reproduce
Alternative Names
Goldback fern, western goldfern, gold fern
Historical Uses
The goldenback fern was widely used by native tribes as an analgesic, or pain-killer
The Karuk used it to treat childbirth pain
The Miwok used it to treat toothaches
Children of the Yurok tribe used the golden spores to make body art
The stems were also used in basketry
Additional Information
The common name "goldback" refers to the light yellow color of the fern's protective coating — a dry golden powder on the underside of the frond which inhibits moisture loss