Ferns and allies

What are ferns and allies?

Ferns are a group of ancient land plants that reproduce by spores, and do not have fruits, seeds, or flowers. Most fern species are found in tropical forests, preferring high humidity and indirect sunlight. Many ferns are epiphytes, meaning they rely on other plants for physical support without taking nutrients from them.

Fern allies are an informal classification referring to plants that reproduce by spores, but are not true ferns. These can include spikemosses, whisk ferns and horsetails.

Ferns and allies of Singapore

Did you know Singapore is home to a large variety of ferns and allies? Explore some of them below!

Bird's Nest Fern

Dragon Scales

Mangrove Fern

Resam Fern

Staghorn Fern

Willdenow’s Spikemoss

Resources on the ferns and allies of Singapore

Keen to deepen your knowledge on the ferns and allies of Singapore? Learn more through these related resources.

Biodiversity of Singapore - Ferns and allies

A Field Guide to Ferns in MacRitchie Reservoir Park