American shield fern – Definition & Meaning

The American shield fern is a type of fern that is native to North America. It is a popular ornamental plant that is grown in gardens and landscapes for its attractive foliage. In this article, we will explore the definition, meaning, and associations of the American shield fern.

Definitions

The American shield fern, also known as Dryopteris marginalis, is a perennial fern that belongs to the family Dryopteridaceae. It is characterized by its triangular fronds that are dark green in color and have a leathery texture. The fronds grow up to 3 feet in length and are arranged in a rosette pattern.

Origin

The American shield fern is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including forests, wetlands, and rocky slopes. It is commonly found in the eastern United States, from Maine to Georgia, and westward to Minnesota and Texas.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the American shield fern is defined as “a fern (Dryopteris marginalis) of eastern North America having pinnatifid fronds with a leathery texture and a triangular shape.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a fern of the genus Dryopteris, native to North America, with triangular fronds and leathery texture.”

Associations

The American shield fern is associated with resilience and protection, as its name suggests. Its leathery fronds are said to resemble a shield, which provides a protective covering for the plant. In Native American culture, the fern was used for medicinal purposes and was believed to have healing properties.

Synonyms

Some of the synonyms of the American shield fern include Dryopteris marginalis, marginal wood fern, and leatherwood fern.

Antonyms

As a plant species, the American shield fern does not have any antonyms.

The same root words

The root words of the American shield fern are “Dryopteris” and “marginalis.” Dryopteris is derived from the Greek words “dryos,” meaning tree, and “pteris,” meaning fern. Marginalis is derived from the Latin word “marginalis,” meaning situated at the edge or border.

Example Sentences

  • The American shield fern is a popular plant for landscaping and gardens.
  • The leathery fronds of the American shield fern provide protection against pests and weather.
  • The Native Americans used the American shield fern for its medicinal properties.
  • The triangular shape of the American shield fern is characteristic of the Dryopteris genus.
  • The American shield fern is a resilient plant that can survive in a variety of habitats.
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