Bradley's Spleenwort -

: Initially, the hybrid was sterile, but through a rare natural process of chromosome doubling, it became a fertile, independent species.

Due to its very specific habitat requirements and rare occurrence, it is considered a species of special concern in many states. bradley's spleenwort

Bradley's spleenwort - Illinois Department of Natural Resources : Initially, the hybrid was sterile, but through

( Asplenium bradleyi ) is a rare, small evergreen fern found primarily in the east-central United States. Named after Professor Frank Howe Bradley, who first discovered it in Tennessee in 1871, it typically thrives in the specialized, harsh environment of acidic rock crevices on sandstone or granite cliffs. Key Characteristics & Identification Named after Professor Frank Howe Bradley, who first

: Its fronds are relatively small, typically ranging from 4 to 20 cm (about 1.5 to 8 inches) in length.

: It prefers very acidic, thin soil (pH 3.5–5.0) in exposed, often sunny rock fissures. Because it thrives in such hostile conditions where other plants cannot grow, it faces little competition from more aggressive species. Conservation Status

: The lower half of the stalk is a distinct shiny, reddish-brown or blackish color, while the upper half (the rachis) transitions to green.