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Pellaea viridis – Green Cliffbreak

Common Name: Green Cliffbreak

Latin Name: Pellaea viridis

Family Name: Pteridaceae (Brake fern)

Geographical Range: Found in rocky areas, cliffs, and slopes in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, especially in Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

Fun Fact: Unlike many ferns, the Green Cliffbreak thrives in rocky, drier environments, making it unique among ferns that typically prefer moist conditions.

Uses by people: Cultivated as a decorative plant, often in rock gardens. It’s also valued for its drought tolerance.

Uses by animals: Provides shelter and moisture for small insects and microorganisms that live in rocky environments.

Roles in their ecosystem: This plant plays a crucial role in stabilizing soil in rocky or eroding areas, preventing soil loss and supporting small animals and insects with shelter.