Ferns, or pteridophytes, are an important component of the various habitats in southeast North America. The moist, shady conditions and acid soils of our mixed hardwood forests are ideal habitats for many of our most beautiful ferns. However, some species are versatile and grow in full sun, part sun, or in basic soils.

The unique hydrologic regime found in wetlands and riparian areas impact which adapted species occupy these habitats.

Wetlands such as swamps, marshes, bogs, and fens are flooded with water for extended periods of time. Riparian habitats, the areas along rivers and streams, have unique topography and a periodic flooding regime.