Sword ferns, moss and Redwood sorrel (Oxalis oregana) grow by a stream in the lush understory of Muir Woods California
Ferns, moss and redwood sorrel grow along a running stream in the spring, some of the plants that thrive in the lush forest understory in Muir Woods National Monument. Redwood Sorrel (Oxalis oregana) looks like clover. Muir Woods is an old growth forest, home to the giant redwoods aka coast redwoods aka California Redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens). They are the tallest trees on earth. The redwoods in Muir Woods average 500 to 800 years old; the oldest is 1,200 years old; some elsewhere are 1,800 years old. Ferns, which reproduce via spores rather than seeds, are another ancient plant dating back 300 million years. Muir Woods is home to 13 species of ferns, most commonly seen among them are the lady, sword, maiden hair, and gold back ferns. The Western sword fern (Polystichum munitum) is from the family Dryopteridaceae (Wood ferns), as is the common lady fern aka ladyfern (Athyrium filix-femina). The ferns at left appear to be sword ferns and the others seen here may include lady ferns.
Size: 2831px × 4256px
Location: Muir Woods, Marin County, California, USA, North America
Photo credit: © Marianne A. Campolongo / Alamy / Afripics
License: Royalty Free
Model Released: No
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