Clinton'S Fern

Dryopteris clintoniana (D.C.Eaton) Dowell, a member of the Dryopteridaceae family, is a naturally occurring hexaploid fern. It results from a hybridization event between the tetraploid Dryopteris cristata and the diploid Dryopteris goldieana, followed by polyploidization. This species is found in regions including New Brunswick, Ontario, Quebec, and several U.S. states such as Vermont, Connecticut, and New York. It extends its range farther north than either of its parent species, indicating an adaptation to cooler climates. The plant is commonly referred to as Clinton's fern in English and is recognized for its fertile status despite its hybrid origin. First described in 1906, it is a notable example of hybrid speciation in ferns.