This is an uncommon fern because it's a northern and a mountain plant and won't usually grow below 500 feet. At Cwm Idwal in Snowdonia though you see it growing at the side of the path to Llyn Idwal as soon as you set out from the car park.

It is rarely seen in England but often recorded in Western Wales and the hills. In Scotland it is common particularly in the hills and the west. There are afar fewer records in Ireland and thos emostly in the north.

Cwm Idwal, North Wales 1st June 2002

Added on 23rd November 2004, updated 8th December 2008, updated 21st March 2010, updated 7th December 2012, updated 15th August 2024