structure of a fern

sorus

Cluster of small spore-producing structures covering the underside of a pinna.

blade

Main part of the frond, rich in chlorophyll.

adventitious roots

Roots that grow out of the rhizome, enabling the fern to anchor itself to the soil and absorb water and mineral salts from it.

rhizome

Stem usually found underground that grows horizontally, occasionally vertically, out of which adventitious fronds and roots grow.

fiddlehead

Immature fern frond; its coiled tip is shaped like the head of a fiddle.

petiole

Slender part of the frond connecting the blade to the rhizome.

pinna

Segment of the frond’s blade, the underside of which bears sori.

frond

Fern leaf, originating at the rhizome, that bears sori and is especially adapted to capture light and perform photosynthesis.